Understanding the link between alcohol and nerve damage is essential for those who have experienced or are currently struggling with alcohol addiction. Alcohol-related peripheral neuropathy (ALN) is a potentially debilitating complication of alcoholism that results in sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction. Unfortunately, ALN is rarely discussed as a specific disease entity in textbooks because it is widely assumed to primarily reflect consequences of nutritional deficiency. This hypothesis is largely based on observations first made over eight decades ago when it was demonstrated that thiamine deficiency (beriberi) neuropathy was clinically similar to ALN.
What treatment options are there for alcohol addiction?
- And as with most diseases, spotting the signs early is absolutely key to mitigating its harmful effects.
- Our muscles need to receive a message from nearby nerves in order to function.
When significantly limiting or stopping alcohol consumption, receiving ongoing support is essential. Symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy may be different for each individual. Some may experience only one symptom, while others experience several.
Treatment Timeline
While it is difficult to reverse all the nerve damage, symptoms can improve significantly with proper treatment, including quitting alcohol and addressing nutritional deficiencies. Healthcare providers often recommend vitamin supplements and physical therapy to improve muscle strength and coordination. Pain management strategies, such as medications and lifestyle changes, may also be helpful for those experiencing chronic discomfort. Alcoholic neuropathy can’t be reversed, even if you stop drinking. However, people with alcoholic neuropathy can make healthy changes to minimize symptoms and receive help for chronic alcohol use.
Complete Blood Count
As such, you might be a bit confused if you hear the terms “alcoholic neuropathy” and “alcoholic polyneuropathy” used interchangeably. In the technical sense though, polyneuropathy is a subcategory of the more general neuropathy. It means multiple groups of nerves are affected whereas mononeuropathy only refers to a single group.
- Severe alcoholic neuropathy may cause motor weakness due to nerve damage.
- The cause is a diverse multifactorial process caused by damage by free radicals, the release of inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress.
- It’s such a common issue that 25% to 66% of chronic alcohol drinkers have some kind of neuropathy.
- The toxins can impact the nerve cells and interfere with their function.
- The treatment rests on abstinence from alcohol and the replacement of key nutrients.
- Your healthcare professional will continue to assist in managing your symptoms and monitoring your progress throughout your recovery.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Because of this interruption, the feet and hands tend to feel weaker. how long does alcoholic neuropathy take to develop But, when neuropathy affects the lower part of the body, these muscles will have poor organ control. That means you may experience intestine, stomach, and bladder problems. So, it’s not uncommon for alcoholic neuropathy to cause sexual dysfunction. Alcoholic neuropathy is one of the most widespread and least known consequences of heavy alcohol abuse.
THE THIAMINE STORY
And as with most diseases, spotting the signs early is absolutely key to mitigating its harmful effects. So, before you have another drink, you may want to learn a bit more about this disease first. To prevent the development of alcoholic neuropathy, the most effective approach is abstinence or at least moderate alcohol use. Limiting your alcohol consumption not only lessens the risk of drug addiction peripheral neuropathy but also improves your overall health. If you struggle with alcohol addiction, consider seeking professional help, such as rehab or therapy, and involving your social support network to overcome this problem.
