Alcohol-Induced Dementia

Excessive drinking over a long period of time can lead to a variety of health problems.

Alongside liver disease and cancer, alcohol and dementia have also been linked. This condition is specifically referred to as alcohol-induced dementia, and people with alcoholism who neglect to receive alcohol addiction treatment may experience memory loss in the future.

What Is Alcohol-Induced Dementia?

Alcohol-induced dementia is an umbrella term that covers two alcohol-related syndromes: alcohol-related dementia and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. While both are related to different symptoms, both are caused by long-term alcohol abuse and contribute to memory loss. Impairment in memory can be a result of direct damage to the brain cells or damage due to lack of thiamine, also called vitamin B1. Korsakoff syndrome is specifically related to vitamin B1 deficiencies in alcoholics. Certain areas of the brain may suffer from vitamin deficiencies, which are associated with memory loss.

Alcohol-Induced Dementia Signs and Symptoms

As a rehab center in California, we know the signs of alcohol-induced dementia could be easily overlooked or confused with symptoms of other conditions. You may think these signs are mild, but they could actually point to an alcohol-related condition. Signs of alcohol-induced dementia include:

• Sporadic eye movement
• Decrease in reflexes and motor movement
• Increased heart rate
• Low body temperature
• Low blood pressure
• Lack of coordination
• Muscle weakness or deterioration

If these signs are neglected, the symptoms of this condition can worsen. Some of these symptoms include:

• Difficulty learning
• Changes in character or personality
• Mood swings
• Inability to retain or recall information
• Inability to think clearly
• Problems with physical balance and movement

Alcohol-induced dementia is also related to white matter loss in the brain. This is tissue in the brain that is made up of nerve fibers. These fibers are also referred to as axons, which are covered by a white matter called myelin. This matter speeds up signals sent between brain cells, allowing the cells to rapidly send and receive messages.¹ White matter shrinkage in areas of the brain, including the prefrontal cortex, corpus callosum, and cerebellum, is associated with alcohol-induced dementia.¹

Receiving addiction treatment can help those struggling with long-term alcohol abuse avoid alcohol-induced dementia and other health concerns. At Banyan Palm Springs, our patients usually begin their recovery journey with an alcohol detox treatment. This treatment provides patients with a safe and effective treatment that addresses their withdrawal symptoms and allows them to move forward in their treatment on a clean slate.

At Banyan Treatment Centers Palm Springs, we know that drug and alcohol abuse can have a negative impact on a person’s life. If you or a loved one is battling an active addiction, it’s time to get help. Call us today at 888-280-4763to learn how we can help you..

Sources:

1. NCBI- Change in the Brain’s White Matter: The role of the brain’s white matter in active learning and memory may be underestimated