The Clinicians Perspective

Question 1

When does alcohol withdrawal begin?

Answer 1

6-8 hours after their last drink

Question 2

Describe mild withdrawal

Answer 2

12-36 hours from last drink

• fine tremor
• increased HR
• increased BP
• nausea

Question 3

Describe moderate withdrawal

Answer 3

12-5 days from last drink

• coarse temor
• shaking
• confusion
• hallucinations

Question 4

Describe severe withdrawal

Answer 4

12 hours - 7 days +

• more severe and prolonged symptoms
• more agitation
• anxiety

Question 5

What is Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome?

Answer 5

Thiamine deficiency (Vitamin B1)

Question 6

Describe the triad of symptoms associated with Wernicke Syndrome

Answer 6

1. Ocular dysfunction
2. Ataxic gait
3. Confusion

Question 7

Describe the two symptoms associated with Korsakoff Syndrome

Answer 7

1. Cognitive impairment

2. Confabulation (false memories)

Question 8

What consequences does alcohol have on nerves and muscles

Answer 8

• Peripheral neuropathy
• Compressive neuropathy
• Myopathy

Question 9

What consequences does alcohol have on the heart?

Answer 9

• Arrhythmias

- Cardiomyopathy

Question 10

What is the name given to the arrhythmia which is associated with acute alcoholism?

Answer 10

Holiday heart

Question 11

What is the name given to the arrhythmia which is associated with chronic alcoholism?

Answer 11

Long QT

Question 12

What liver problems can alcohol cause in the liver?

Answer 12

Alcohol related:
- steatosis
- hepatitis
- cirrhosis
Also:
- portal hypertension 
- hepatocellular carcinoma

Question 13

What types of cancers are alcohol drinkers more at risk of?

Answer 13

• Oral
• Pharyngeal
• Laryngeal
• Oesophageal
• Colorectal