A 21-year-old member asked:
Can i really die from alcohol withdrawal when trying to quit?
2 doctor answers • 11 doctors weighed in
Dr. Anatoly Belilovskyanswered
Pediatrics 37 years experience
Yes.: In the very severe cases, delirium tremens can cause fatal seizures, although most withdrawal fatalities occur from falls while mentally incapacitated.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Ed Friedlander commented
Pathology 46 years experience
Have somebody with some medical credentials and the ability to prescribe some mild medication take you through this. And congratulations on your decision to quit -- you are doing a huge favor for yourself and others.
Jan 23, 2012
A Verified Doctoranswered
Addiction Medicine 51 years experience
Sometimes: About 90% of people with alcohol withdrawal have "the shakes" - severe tremor, anxiety, sweating, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, but about 10% can go on to seizures, which sometimes can be fatal, or a severe illness called delirium tremens (dt's), in which people are agitated, confused, hallucinating, where heart attacks, strokes and death may occur. You should seek expert help.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 3, 2016
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