The most important strategy against alcoholic neuropathy lies in preventing the symptoms from getting worse by decreasing alcohol consumption as soon as possible. Avoiding excessive amounts of alcohol is the primary way to prevent alcoholic neuropathy. If you notice you are developing signs of alcoholic neuropathy (such as numbness after drinking alcohol), in addition to alcoholic neuropathy seeing a physician, try to stay away from alcohol altogether. If you are having difficulty avoiding alcohol, there are resources that can help you quit.

How is Alcoholic Neuropathy Diagnosed?

The person doesn’t feel pain in their limbs and can get light injuries to their limbs on a daily basis. They can’t feel when they cut themselves, or when their shoes are too tight, for example. This can result in various scrapes and bruises over the limbs where they don’t feel the sensations. But, it can become very serious when the patient doesn’t feel the sensations in their limbs.

• Once alcohol use has been addressed, a doctor can focus on treating alcohol-related neuropathy itself.
• You can call our free, confidential helpline at for more information about rehab.
• Some people can drink for a very long time and never develop this condition.
• Anything above that recommended amount can result in some level of damage.
• It occurs when nerve damage happens, primarily in the peripheral nerves, located in your arms and legs.

Pain – A Major Symptom of Alcoholic Neuropathy

There is no “cure” for alcoholic neuropathy, and the damage is sometimes permanent. It is possible to reverse some symptoms, but the effectiveness depends on the length of the alcohol https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/wet-mush-brain-from-alcoholism-symptoms-and-dangers/ abuse and the extent of the damage. Most alcoholics have been drinking for years, so a relatively short period of abstinence is usually not helpful. Nerve cells can regenerate to some extent, but many alcoholics have been drinking long enough that some nerve cells are dead and beyond repair. A commitment to living a healthy lifestyle can bring significant improvement, and in some cases, a full recovery. There is only one hard and fast rule — the symptoms will get worse with continued alcohol consumption.

How Can You Prevent Alcoholic Neuropathy and Reduce Risks?

That’s how various injuries and potentially severe health problems can happen. Several body parts, including the nerves, get impacted by the lack of proteins and vitamin B12 especially. This is called alcoholic neuropathy – a disorder where alcohol the nervous system is so disrupted by alcohol’s toxins, the body cannot function normally. A doctor may also want to test the functioning of the kidneys, liver, and thyroid. In addition, they may order blood tests to check for vitamin and nutrient deficiencies.

The Symptoms of Alcoholic Neuropathy and Treatment Options

Alcoholic neuropathy is caused by nutritional deficiency, as well as toxins that build up in the body. Alcohol decreases the absorption of nutrients such as magnesium, selenium, and vitamins B1 and B2, causing significant deficits that affect many areas of the body, including the nerves. In general, it takes years for alcoholic neuropathy to develop, so a long-standing history of heavy alcohol use is typical. Some people experience a faster onset and progression of alcoholic neuropathy than others. It's not completely clear why some people are more prone to this complication than others. Constant pain in the hands or feet is one of the most bothersome aspects of alcoholic neuropathy.

• There are also direct toxic effects of alcohol and its metabolites on neurons, affecting cellular cytoskeletons and demyelination of neurons.
• As axons break down, the nerve fibers become less dense and cannot function properly.
• This condition is also referred to as “alcohol-related neuropathy” to help decrease the stigma surrounding the condition.
• Symptoms may include numbness and tingling in the limbs, muscle weakness, and loss of mobility.
• A doctor may diagnose a person with alcoholic neuropathy, if alcohol use has damaged the peripheral nerves.

Alcoholic Neuropathy: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Timelines

Counseling or therapy can help us cope with the emotional and mental challenges of a lengthy recovery process. A comprehensive rehab program with a medical detox component can help alcoholics get sober and alcoholism stay that way. Many programs will help manage co-occurring disorders like alcoholic neuropathy, so the recovering patient can live a more comfortable and sober life. The goal of alcoholic neuropathy treatment is to improve quality of life by offering relief from symptoms.