Acute diarrhea-induced shock during alcohol withdrawal: a case study

J Int Med Res. 2021 Feb;49(2):300060521990464. doi: 10.1177/0300060521990464.

Abstract

We present the case of a 54-year-old man with severe acute diarrhea during alcohol withdrawal, despite special feeding, correction of vitamin deficiencies, and protection of the gastrointestinal mucosa. Diarrhea is often overlooked, so we aim to draw attention to the risk of combined malnutrition, acute diarrhea, and alcohol withdrawal because this can lead to lethal complications. We recommend that patient's bowel movements should be carefully observed during alcohol withdrawal, even during hospitalization.

Keywords: Alcohol withdrawal; diarrhea; hospitalization; hyperkalemia; malnutrition; vitamin deficiency.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Alcoholism* / complications
  • Diarrhea / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Malnutrition*
  • Middle Aged
  • Shock*
  • Substance Withdrawal Syndrome*