Chapter 6 Flashcards
What is the definition of withdrawal?
It is the reverse of the effects induced by the drug itself. Symptoms include hangover, jumpiness, edginess, irritability, and hyperactivity.
What is the definition of tolerance?
Refers to physiological changes that occur as a result of repeated exposure to alcohol. Represents the nervous system’s efforts to adapt and function more or less normally despite the presence of alcohol
What is acute fatty liver?
Deposits of fat build up in normal liver cells. Occurs because of the decrease in the breakdown of fatty acids and an increase in the manufacture of fats by the liver. Occurs when 30-50% or more of a person’s dietary calories are in the form of alcohol. REversable is consumption is stopped.
What is alcoholic hepatitis?
Result of severe or prolonged bout of heavy drinking. Defined by inflammation of the liver and variable damage to liver cells. Jaundiced skin is a usual sign. Other symptoms may include weakness, itching or welts (hives), fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, low-grade fever, weight loss, increasing ascites, dark urine, light stools. Can be reversible but may be fatal or go on to become a smoldering, chronic form of liver disease.
What is cirrhosis?
Condition in which there is widespread, permanent destruction of liver cells. Cells are replaced by nonfunctioning scar tissue. The liver is unable to perform its work properly. Can lead to ascites.
What are the characteristics of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome?
Smaller than normal birth weight and length. The head is smaller, probably as a result of arrested brain growth. Infants also have a “dysmorphic facial appearance” where they appear different but differences can be difficult to describe. Features include an overall small head, flat cheeks, small eyes, and a thin upper lip. Cardiac problems and mental retardation are associated with FAS in almost half of the cases (46%).
What is hyperarousal?
Earliest and most common sign of acute alcohol withdrawal. Includes anxiety, irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, rapid heartbeat, and tremulousness. Motivator for morning or midday drinking.
What are alcoholic hallucinations?
Occurs in about 25% of those withdrawing from alcohol. Usually seen in the first 24 hours of withdrawal. Includes true hallucinations, both auditory and visual, illusions, the misperception or misinterpretation of real environmental stimuli.
What are convulsive seizures?
Sometimes referred to as “rum fits.” Can occur in association with acute alcohol withdrawal. Almost always generalized, grand mal, major motor seizures, in which the eyes roll back in the head; the body muscles contract, relax, and extend rhythmically and violently; and there is a loss of consciousness.
What is delirium tremens?
Most serious form of alcohol withdrawal. In the past, mortality rates as high as 15-20% were reported. “Delirium” refers to hallucinations, confusion, and disorientation. “Tremens” refers to heightened autonomic nervous activity, marked by tremulousness and agitation, fast pulse, elevated blood pressure, and fever. Also called “the horrors.”
