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SponsoredDon’t drink and drive. Alcohol affects your brain, causing behaviors that are typically associated with being “drunk,” such as slurred speech and poor coordination. While these symptoms are temporary, long-term alcohol abuse can cause alcohol induced, or alcohol related, dementia, resulting in possible permanent brain damage.
In the past, drinking alcohol in moderation was thought to have benefits for the heart and cardiovascular system. However, recent research demonstrates that even low levels of alcohol consumption carry significant health risks. When you binge or drink heavily and consistently, it can be severely toxic to the body and the brain.
Damage to brain cells from alcohol abuse can cause several symptoms that are often confused with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, including:
- Short and long-term memory loss
- Problems with “executive functions’ such as planning, organizing, and making decisions
- Impaired coordination
- Nerve damage in arms and legs
- Difficulties with speech and language
- Psychosis
- Personality changes
What Causes Alcohol Induced Dementia?
Alcohol is a neurotoxin. This is a substance that can be toxic to the brain and other bodily organs. Long-term exposure can kill brain cells and shrink brain tissue. The damage is especially evident in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for the “big picture” functions of decision-making and organization, and in areas related to memory.
Alcohol induced dementia can also be caused by a shortage of Vitamin B1, or thiamin, a nutrient that’s essential for healthy nerves, cells, and tissues. The brain needs Vitamin B1 in order to build neural pathways that support memory, coordination, and a host of other functions.
People in the grip of an alcohol addiction may choose a nutrient-poor diet, skip meals, or have other types of addictions and health problems that make it hard to eat healthy foods.
Chronic, heavy alcohol abuse can also damage the liver, causing diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatic insufficiency. The liver is responsible for clearing the body of toxins so they can’t circulate in the bloodstream and enter the brain. But when the liver is compromised by long years of alcohol abuse, it clears toxins far less efficiently, or it can shut down completely.
Depending on the affected area of the brain, alcohol related liver damage can cause typical alcohol induced dementia symptoms such as:
- Memory impairment
- Coordination problems
- Depression and psychosis
What Is the Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a medical issue that can lead to brain damage if not treated immediately.
Treatment Options Bring Hope
In many cases, the effects of long-term alcohol abuse can be reversed or at least reduced. Treatment for alcohol induced dementia can include:
- Quitting alcohol completely
- Eating a healthy diet with vitamin supplementation as needed
- Treating alcohol related liver disease to control toxins
If you’ve been using alcohol for a long time, quitting can be more difficult and risky. Inpatient alcohol rehab programs offer comprehensive support for all stages of recovery from long-term alcohol abuse, from detox to counseling and support groups.
You must not attempt to detox at home. Alcohol withdrawal can trigger life-threatening side effects. Under the supervision of trained medical professionals, your safety is protected, and it helps you move seamlessly to the next steps in your recovery.
In an inpatient treatment center, nutritious meals on a regular schedule can help restore your vitamin and mineral levels and support your recovery. Inpatient treatment also helps you get help for other alcohol related health issues, such as liver problems. Your residential program can also connect you and your family with community resources to support your aftercare and relapse prevention program.
The symptoms of alcohol-related dementia can affect all areas of life. But if you, or someone you know, is experiencing the symptoms of long-term alcohol abuse, there is help – and hope for the future. We have the answers you need now. Contact us at
800-948-8417
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to find the solution that’s right for you.