Which symptom was observed in the patient arriving at the ED with acute alcohol withdrawal?

Which symptom was observed in the patient arriving at the ED with acute alcohol withdrawal?

• A. Chest pain and shortness of breath
• B. Confusion, smelling of alcohol, and hand tremors
• C. Jaundice and disorientation
• D. Seizures

Answer: (B)

Acute alcohol withdrawal causes CNS hyperactivity after stopping or reducing heavy drinking. Hand tremors are a classic early sign, reflecting this increased neural excitability, and confusion can emerge as withdrawal progresses. The odor of alcohol on the breath can be present because the person recently drank to ease withdrawal symptoms or continues drinking. Together, these features align with withdrawal rather than other acute problems. Seizures are a risk in withdrawal but are not the most typical initial presentation described here, whereas chest pain with shortness of breath suggests cardiac or lung issues and jaundice with disorientation points more to liver disease.

Acute alcohol withdrawal causes CNS hyperactivity after stopping or reducing heavy drinking. Hand tremors are a classic early sign, reflecting this increased neural excitability, and confusion can emerge as withdrawal progresses. The odor of alcohol on the breath can be present because the person recently drank to ease withdrawal symptoms or continues drinking. Together, these features align with withdrawal rather than other acute problems. Seizures are a risk in withdrawal but are not the most typical initial presentation described here, whereas chest pain with shortness of breath suggests cardiac or lung issues and jaundice with disorientation points more to liver disease.