Around the world, over 55 million people have dementia. It’s a broad term encompassing symptoms of cognitive decline. There are different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy Body disease, and frontotemporal dementia. Then, there’s alcoholic dementia, which is linked to a chronic consumption of alcohol.
Are you or someone you know a heavy drinker? This blog will shed light on the early signs of this disease. We’ll also explore the long-term impacts of excessive alcohol intake on the brain and what can be done for anyone suffering from this condition.
The Relationship Between Alcohol and Brain Health
Alcohol has an immediate influence on your central nervous system. And while the effects may vary depending on how much you’ve consumed and individual traits (among others), you’ll usually experience confusion, poor coordination, and impaired decision-making. When you drink too much, it can potentially lead to alcohol poisoning.
When you suffer from alcohol addiction, your brain will be one of the main body organs that will bear the brunt of your disorder in the long run.
Chronic alcohol abuse can cause health problems like heart and liver damage, digestion problems, cancer, and a weakened immune system. Additionally, it can lead to mood and sleep disturbances and mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety.
Even moderate drinking can be harmful, according to a 30-year study by the University of Oxford. And the greater the alcohol intake, the higher the risk is for hippocampal atrophy, a type of brain damage that impacts memory and spatial orientation.
Early Signs of Alcoholic Dementia
Alcohol can take a massive toll on the brain. Among the consequences of excessive drinking in the long run is developing alcohol-related dementia.
How do you know if you or someone you know has this condition? Here are the early alcoholic dementia symptoms you have to take note of.
Short-term memory loss
Chronic alcohol intake can negatively impact your memory, especially your recall of recent events and information. You may forget appointments or where you last placed your everyday items.
Difficulty with complex tasks
Not only will alcohol interfere with how your brain remembers. It can also affect how you do complex tasks. You may struggle with planning, organizing, managing things, and solving problems.
Mood changes and emotional disturbances
The damage that alcohol does to the brain can also manifest in emotional instability. You may experience more frequent mood swings and irritability. Symptoms of depression and anxiety can emerge, affecting your overall well-being and relationships with others (both personal and professional).
Disorientation and confusion
One common symptom of any type of dementia is disorientation. When you suspect yourself or others of alcoholic dementia, be especially wary of this sign. An affected individual often loses track of time or place — and gets confused about their surroundings.
Problems with coordination and motor functions
Alcohol also affects the brain in a way that impairs your motor skills. When your coordination deteriorates, it can lead to difficulties with basic activities of daily living, ranging from walking to grooming.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome: A Close Relative
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS), also known as wet brain, is a brain disorder linked to a lack of Vitamin B1 (thiamine). When left untreated, this condition can result in irreversible confusion. Long-term effects also include problems with muscle coordination and psychological issues like hallucinations.
It’s also commonly associated with alcoholic dementia because about 8 in 10 people with alcohol abuse disorder have thiamine depletion. In the US, alcohol misuse is the primary cause of this vitamin deficiency, which subsequently leads to the onset of WKS.
Reversibility and Management of Alcoholic Dementia
Some alcohol-related brain damage can be reversed, while others may not. In the case of alcohol-induced dementia, early detection is one of the most important factors that affect reversibility. In the initial stages of this condition, it can still be reversed. If not, you can still reduce or slow down symptoms.
The younger you are, you also have a better chance of improvement. The same is true if you have better overall health (i.e., you have no other underlying or co-occurring conditions).
To help manage such kinds of dementia, healthcare professionals recommend abstinence from alcohol. They typically pair this approach with an improved diet and intake of vitamin supplements, particularly thiamine. This vitamin, which can be taken orally or as injections, is crucial in counteracting some of the detrimental impacts of alcohol.
If they also suspect WKS, they also recommend extended thiamine usage in combination with other vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium.
Living with Alcoholic Dementia
As with other forms of dementia, coping with an alcohol-related one is challenging. And it’s not only affecting the individual involved but also their loved ones. Here are some strategies that can help.
- Establish a structured routine to help create a sense of stability and familiarity.
- Use memory aids like notes and calendars. Invest in alarms and surveillance systems.
- Practice clear and concise communication and use simple language to avoid overwhelming the patient with complex explanations or information.
- Join support groups to access practical resources as well as emotional support.
- Seek professional help to learn about possible treatment options, including therapy (occupational and cognitive behavioral) and an intensive outpatient program.
As stated, early diagnosis is critical. Early detection can help slow down — and even reverse — the progression of the condition. Just as important, it allows individuals to receive the most appropriate care and support.
Final Words
Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to several effects, both acute and adverse. One of the brain-related damages you should be aware of is alcoholic dementia. This type of dementia affects memory, motor skills, mood, and more.
Recognizing these signs and seeking early diagnosis and treatment is vital in managing and potentially reversing this condition. Apart from early detection, abstaining from alcohol is also essential. It will help prevent further deterioration — and improve overall quality of life in the long run.
Need help treating alcohol use disorder? Freedom Recovery offers the professional services and tailored guidance you need. Reach out today!
