This waste then builds up and harms many regions of the body, including the nerves. Our treatment philosophy is based on a https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/the-cycle-of-addiction-and-how-to-break-it/ comprehensive and integrated approach to addressing all issues related to substance use and mental health disorders. We leave nothing to guesswork as we utilize therapeutically proven, evidence-based clinical practices.
Symptoms of Alcoholic Neuropathy
Some people with thyroid, kidney or liver disorders, autoimmune conditions or those exposed to prolonged stress can be at risk of alcoholic neuropathy. A healthcare professional can offer support for people with alcohol use disorder. A doctor may also recommend treatments to manage neurological symptoms, such as pain relief medications, Sober living house physical therapy, and mobility aids. Ongoing therapy and counseling can address the psychological aspects of addiction and help develop strategies for coping with the challenges of neuropathy.
Factors Affecting Recovery Time
People with alcoholic neuropathy have peripheral nerves damaged by excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic, heavy alcohol use can adversely impact several organ systems throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS). Alcoholic neuropathy refers to nerve damage resulting from chronic heavy alcohol use.
Decreased Sensation
Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge. It’s a Saturday evening, and a group of friends have gathered for a barbecue. Everyone laughs over their favorite beverages and enjoys the delicious meat and veggies being grilled up. Among the group is Mike, a 45-year-old who loves these gatherings — but he’s recently noticed a tingling sensation in his feet. Individualized treatment programs delivered in a comfortable, relaxed setting promote healing in your recovery journey.
General Health
Research shows that most patients with alcoholic neuropathy displayed poor sensory features, numbness, and impaired sensation of vibrations. Blood tests can also assess for a nutritional deficiency linked to nerve health and alcohol consumption. Alcoholic neuropathy damages sensory nerves, resulting in a decreased sensation in the hands and feet.
Depending on how severe the nerve damage is, it can cause mild discomfort to severe disability. This is also something that can have a long-term psychological impact. It’s impossible to pinpoint the exact amount of alcohol intake that could cause alcoholic neuropathy. According to experts, alcohol abuse can cause various neurological disorders such as cognitive impairment, confusion, and cerebellar ataxia. So, the nervous system is bound to suffer when you consume too much alcohol.
- The first step is stopping the addiction and alcohol detox with medications.
- This will help reduce the impact of nerve damage and manage the condition.
- Constant alcohol misuse depletes the liver of all the proteins and nutrients it needs to function properly.
- So, the nervous system is bound to suffer when you consume too much alcohol.
Additionally, regular exercise and proper diabetes management can significantly reduce the possibility of developing peripheral neuropathy. Engaging in physical activities and monitoring your blood sugar levels can contribute to maintaining good nerve health. Joining a support group, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, may be beneficial in maintaining sobriety and providing a network of individuals who understand your experience. Your healthcare professional will continue to assist in managing your symptoms and monitoring your progress throughout your recovery. By combining nutritional support, medication, rehabilitation therapies, and lifestyle modifications, you can work towards a better prognosis for alcoholic neuropathy. Rehabilitation therapies, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, play a crucial role in the recovery process.
- Polyneuropathy involves damage to more than one nerve at the same time, usually multiple nerves throughout the peripheral nervous system and all over the body.
- However, if caught early enough, you can minimize the damage from alcoholic neuropathy.
- Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms related to alcoholic neuropathy.
- It is often described as ‘pins and needles’ and is felt as many pins were pricking in the area.
What Are the Health Conditions that Mimic Alcohol-Induced Neuropathy?
It can cause chronic pain, problems with normal bodily functions, and in severe cases even disability. According to clinical reports, muscle weakness can have a serious long-term alcoholic neuropathy effect. In severe alcohol-related neuropathy cases, muscle weakness appears as a result of heavy nerve damage. Thus, the nerves can’t receive messages, making it difficult for them to function properly. Studies show that alcoholic neuropathy could be the result of the direct toxic effect of alcohol or its metabolites and nutritional deficiencies (for example, thiamine deficiency). Consider taking vitamin supplements to ensure adequate intake, but remember to consult your doctor before starting any supplementation regime.
- There is damage to the nerves due to the direct toxic effect of alcohol and the malnutrition induced by it.
- On the other end of the spectrum, alcohol neuropathy can cause constant pain in limbs where the nerve is affected.
- But this condition is hard to manage, especially if the patient still drinks heavily.
- Thiamine serves as an important coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism and neuron development.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol-related neuropathy or alcohol misuse or addiction, it’s important to know that help is available. Evidence-based addiction treatment can lead to positive health outcomes for those struggling with alcohol addiction. If you or a loved one is ready to seek help, consider visiting the rehabs.com treatment directory. This powerful online resource can connect you with treatment facilities from around the country. A person should speak with a doctor if they are experiencing any symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy or if they are concerned about their alcohol use.