When a person abstains from a drug or alcohol, the individual might experience what type of symptoms?

Withdrawal symptoms occur when an individual who has developed a physical dependence on a substance, such as drugs or alcohol, suddenly stops or drastically reduces their intake. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include anxiety, tremors, nausea, sweating, and in some cases, can escalate to life-threatening conditions such as seizures or delirium tremens in the case of alcohol withdrawal. Understanding that withdrawal symptoms can be serious and even emergent is critical for EMTs, as they need to assess and manage these symptoms effectively when providing care to patients who have abstained from drug or alcohol use.

The other options—overdose concerns, decreased urge to take the substance, or psychotic events—do not accurately represent the physiological and psychological reactions that can occur during withdrawal, making it important to recognize the significance and urgency of withdrawal symptoms in emergency medical situations.