Final answer:
Stage 3 of alcohol withdrawal is Delirium Tremens, also known as 'the shakes', which represents a severe and life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention (a). It manifests with confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations, as part of the broader spectrum of alcohol withdrawal and dependence symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stage 3 of alcohol withdrawal is Delirium Tremens (DTs), also known as "the shakes". Delirium Tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can occur when an individual stops drinking alcohol after a period of heavy and sustained use. This stage is characterized by sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes, which can include confusion, disorientation, cardiac problems, and hallucinations. The presence of DTs is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Alcohol withdrawal can progress through several stages, with the initial minor withdrawal symptoms ranging from insomnia, tremors, and anxiety, to the later stage of DTs which is much more serious and includes a risk of seizures.
Individuals with alcohol use disorder may also develop tolerance, which is a condition in which they require increasing quantities of alcohol to achieve the desired effects. Psychological dependence is another aspect of this condition, marked by a strong craving for the substance. When alcohol consumption is discontinued, those with dependence can experience withdrawal symptoms resulting from the effects on neurotransmitter systems in the brain, and these can vary in intensity from mild to life-threatening.