Clinical and pathological features of alcohol-related brain damage PMC

For heavy drinkers, these seemingly innocent memory lapses can evolve to slurred speech, an unsteady walk, violent muscle twitches or hallucinations, signaling alcohol-induced brain damage. what is mush brain If left untreated, the damage can progress to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Anyone suffering from alcoholism is at risk of developing WKS disease.

What are the symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?

The most serious effect is Korsakoff’s syndrome, characterized in part by an inability to remember recent events or to learn new information. Thiamine is essential for converting sugar to energy in our bodies and creating chemical messengers in our https://ecosoberhouse.com/ brains. Chronic alcohol users often have inflamed digestive tracts, making it difficult for the body to absorb the thiamine it needs from the foods they consume. Pancreatitis can be a short-term (acute) condition that clears up in a few days.

Recognizing Signs of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

• Because WKS is composed of two separate diseases, there are two unique sets of symptoms that can indicate the development of WKS.
• Physicians rely on professional judgment and a combination of clinical evaluations and medical history.
• The evaluation may include cognitive assessments, blood tests, and neurological screenings to evaluate eye movement, muscle strength, and coordination.
• For those who need help and don’t want it, intervention may be the only alternative.

The evaluation may include cognitive assessments, blood tests, and neurological screenings to evaluate eye movement, muscle strength, and coordination. MRIs may also be used to identify the lesions in the brain that may develop as a result of the disease. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome may also be referred to as Korsakoff psychosis, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, alcoholic encephalopathy, encephalopathy-alcoholic, alcohol dementia, Wernicke’s dementia, and Wernicke’s disease. Informally, some people also call this condition “wet brain” syndrome. In many cases, stopping or limiting alcohol use is essential to reduce the risk of developing Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Proper nutrition and supplementation (thiamine [vitamin B1] injection or tablets) may help reduce risk, especially for those with alcohol addiction.

Signs of Korsakoff Syndrome

The problems with thiamine absorption are not exclusive to the brain. Wet brain alcoholism actually starts in other organs—specifically, the liver and digestive tract. The liver stores thiamine and the gastrointestinal tract extracts it from food.

How Is WK Syndrome Diagnosed?

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder and Alcohol Addiction

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)

• While anyone can develop the disorder, people who consume alcohol are more likely to develop the condition.
• They may also notice problems in their central nervous system and extremities, like hands and feet.
• The earlier someone seeks help for their drinking, the quicker they can resume a normal life.
• Discover effective strategies to support your loved one and navigate the challenges of addiction.