Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to a wide range of medical problems, including Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. This is a serious and potentially irreversible form of brain damage that causes dementia-like symptoms.
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is most common in people ages 30 to 70 and occurs more often in men than in women. Typically, people diagnosed with this condition have consumed an average of 35 drinks per week for men or 28 for women over a period of five years or more.
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome begins with Wernicke’s encephalopathy. This condition is caused by a nutritional deficiency resulting in a lack of thiamine—also known as vitamin B1. Thiamine is a water-soluble vitamin that is found naturally in meats, fish, or whole grains and is commonly added to breads or cereals. It is crucial to several of the body’s basic cell functions and the breakdown of nutrients for energy, which is why a deficiency can cause serious neurological issues.
Alcohol causes thiamine to not be absorbed properly, prevents it from being used effectively, and increases the amount of thiamine lost in urine. Therefore, prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to a thiamine deficiency even if a person has an otherwise healthy diet.
When there is not enough thiamine available, the body will break down glucose with a less efficient method that can produce lactic acid. As lactic acid accumulates in the body, it contributes to neuronal death in susceptible brain areas.
The symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy are often difficult to spot because they are similar to what is associated with intoxication or alcohol withdrawal. For example:
- Drowsiness
- Lethargy
- Disorientation
- Confusion
- Mild memory loss
- Poor balance
- Muscle weakness
- Tremors
- Trouble controlling eye movements
Some people with Wernicke’s encephalopathy will also appear undernourished. They might seem to have suddenly lost a great deal of weight and look generally unwell.
If Wernicke’s encephalopathy is promptly diagnosed, the condition may be partially or fully reversed. A person will need to stop drinking alcohol and receive injections of high doses of thiamine along with other B vitamins to ensure the best chance of recovery.
Korsakoff’s Syndrome
When Wernicke’s encephalopathy is left untreated, a person becomes at risk of developing Korsakoff’s syndrome. A person who has both Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s syndrome is then said to have Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Because Wernicke’s encephalopathy is often undetected in the early stages, it is estimated that about 85% of people with the condition will develop Korsakoff’s syndrome.
The primary symptom of Korsakoff’s syndrome is confusion or memory loss. Most commonly, a person will struggle to remember events that happened after they developed the condition.
A person with Korsakoff’s syndrome may attempt to fill in gaps in their memory by making up stories that didn’t happen. For example, they may claim to have been out visiting an old friend when they were actually home sick in bed. This is known as confabulation and isn’t the same thing as purposefully lying. The person believes their memory is working normally and doesn’t know that the story they are telling isn’t true.
Other symptoms of Korsakoff’s syndrome can include:
- Trouble learning new skills
- Problems making decisions
- Difficulty understanding written or verbal communication
- Personality changes
Korsakoff’s syndrome is often not diagnosed until a person has been hospitalized for other medical reasons. A brain scan is sometimes ordered as part of the process, but a diagnosis can be made based on symptoms and a person’s history of alcohol use.
Unfortunately, Korsakoff’s syndrome can’t be reversed. Treatment includes giving the person high doses of thiamine and nutritional supplements to prevent further damage. However, someone with Korsakoff’s syndrome will typically need the same level of long-term care support as any other dementia sufferer.
Untreated Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can be fatal.
Addiction Treatment Is the Best Way to Prevent Long-Term Problems Associated With Alcohol Use Disorders
Alcohol use disorders are chronic, progressive illnesses. Without access to evidence-based care, a person will continue to experience negative consequences for their mental and physical health, as well as their relationships with loved ones. Because alcohol use disorders have both biological and environmental triggers, a person can’t simply quit drinking through willpower alone. They need a personalized care plan that addresses the factors that contributed to their condition and provides them with the tools necessary for a life of lasting sobriety.
At Waypoint Recovery Center, we provide a full continuum of care for men and women with alcohol use disorders. Our South Carolina residential addiction treatment program encourages a holistic view of the recovery process, with an emphasis on good nutrition, regular physical activity, and care for any co-occurring mental health disorders. After completing residential treatment, our clients have access to a wide range of services designed to support their transition back to independent living. Contact our admissions representatives today to learn how we can help you or your loved one take the first steps towards a brighter future.
