Medical Complications of Addiction Flashcards
5 broad, easily recognizable signs/symptoms of addiction?
Tolerance Withdrawal Cravings Continued use despite negative consequences Using more than intendended
4 broad, more subtle signs/symptoms of addiction?
Denial
Rationalization
Failure to meet obligations
Failure of normal social functioning
What’s the success rate for treatment of addiction when defined as “reduction in drug use”?
40-60%
Sequelae common to oral drug use? (name 3)
Gastritis, ulcers, GI bleeding
Sequelae common to IV drug use? (name 5)
Skin abscesses Track marks Blood-borne infections (HIV, Hep C, etc.) Endocarditis Emboli
Sequelae common to nasal drug use? (name 2)
Epistaxis
Ulcers
Sequelae common to pulmonary drug use? (name 5)
Emphysema Infarction Lung collapse Hemorrhage Burns
Big picture of alcohol withdrawal?
Too much glutamate signaling, not enough GABA -> autonomic arousal / seizures.
6 signs of fetal alcohol syndrome?
Developmental delay / cognitive impairment Poor impulse control / behavior problems Learning disabilities Microcephaly Vision or hearing problems Joint deformities
How does withdrawal from benzos and barbituates compare to EtOH withdrawal?
Very very similar - not enough GABA in brain.
Review: Is opiate withdrawal fatal?
Nope (unless you have an underlying cardiovascular disease), but it’s miserable.
Young person with stroke, MI, renal failure, spontaneous abortion, or bowel ischemia… what should you test for?
Stimulants!
5 acute effects of stimulant intoxication?
CV: vasospasm, increased BP+HR, increased O2 needs.
Electrophysiologcal disturbance -> seizures, arrythmias.
Hyperthermia.
Hyperactivity.
Aggression, paranoia, grandiosity.
2 affects of chronic stimulant use?
Accelerated atherosclerosis.
Premature aging- i.e. people like like hell.
4 long term sequelae of marijuana use?
Pulmonary disease
Decreased libido / sperm count
Immunosuppression
Anhedonia
