Thus, in alcoholics with the mutated dehydrogenase enzyme, acetaldehyde concentrations may reach values about 20 times higher than in individuals without the mutation. These abnormal proteins influence other cell populations especially the hepatocytes where the damage to hepatic mitochondria results in hepatic cirrhosis with reduction of energetic substrates in the liver. The action of these abnormal proteins is explained by competition with normal proteins causing the damage to function and metabolism of the cell [22]. Most patients with alcohol neuropathy initially present with symmetrical polyneuropathies in the lower distal extremities, however; heavier abuse can progress to distal upper extremity symptoms. The most common findings are sensory related and are varied to include pain, numbness, and paresthesias.
She has over a decade of direct patient care experience working as a registered nurse specializing in neurotrauma, stroke, and the emergency room. Early diagnosis and treatment make it more likely that you will be able to recover. By Heidi Moawad, MD
Heidi Moawad is a neurologist and expert in the field of brain health and neurological disorders. Dr. Moawad regularly writes and edits health and career content for medical books and publications.
Alcohol-Related Neurological Effects and Diseases
The main symptom was a pain, which was excruciating at times, but which could wax and wane. Other noted signs of the neurotoxic effect were disturbances to the cardiovascular system and the gastrointestinal tract. However, when the neuropathy has advanced so much that it has caused permanent damage, the liver transplant may have little to no effect on the larger symptoms in the rest of the body. Unfortunately, using just vitamin supplements is not enough to curb the symptoms of alcohol-dependent individuals. That’s why it is essential to focus on the multiple pathways that have led to the development of the condition.
Reversing the condition includes having a good, healthy diet full of supplements and nutrients to replace the lost nutrients over the years. It is recommended to eat foods that are high in nutritional value, and not too heavy on the body’s metabolism. What is clear is that heavy alcohol use can speed up the onset of alcoholic neuropathy. Alcoholic neuropathy is a neural disorder that’s caused by excessive alcohol drinking. Alcohol is a toxin, and if one drinks excessively, it can have adverse effects on the body.
Is an Alcoholic Neuropathy Fatal?
Some researches show that almost 65 percent of people in the US, who suffer from alcohol use disorder, have also been diagnosed with alcoholic neuropathy. When you pair alcoholic neuropathy recovery time that with pain and hypersensitivity, it becomes difficult for the hands and feet to function. So, people tend to lose coordination of their extremities and balance.
- Additional treatments, such as nutritional supplements, physical therapy and pain management, may be necessary to optimize nerve function.
- Four studies addressed the management of patients with alcohol-related peripheral neuropathy.
- Frequencies and descriptive characteristics extracted were calculated.
- A doctor will take a thorough health history and have you complete questionnaires related to alcohol intake to help diagnose these conditions.
- In severe cases, it can lead to organ, skin, and limb dysfunctions.
And without a sufficient amount of water, the kidneys can suffer heavy damage and lose functionality. For the nerves to function properly, the body needs a stable balance of chemicals and salts in the blood. However, when there is an illness affecting the kidneys, it becomes difficult to filter out all those chemicals. Some people can drink for a very long time and never develop this condition.