Alcoholic Neuropathy: How Alcoholism Harms the Nervous System

Alcohol neuropathy is nerve damage affecting the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. In serious cases of alcoholic neuropathy, autonomic nerves are impacted, which are the nerves essential for internal body functions like heart rate, digestion, and breathing.

Alcoholic neuropathy is caused by frequent overconsumption of alcohol. Those suffering with
long-term alcohol use disorder are most at risk of developing nerve damage. It is one of the many symptoms of alcohol addiction and can have a serious impact on quality of life.

Alcoholic neuropathy is diagnosed by a doctor through an examination of medical history, as well as physical and neurological exams. Those suffering from alcoholic neuropathy experience symptoms. Recognizing these symptoms can help lead to the diagnosis.

Because alcoholic neuropathy is nerve damage from alcohol abuse, possible tests for the diagnosis include:

• Testing electrolyte levels
• Thyroid function tests
• Nerve conduction tests
• Nerve biopsy
• Liver and kidney function tests
• Electromyography (EMG)
• Blood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies
• Voiding cystourethrogram
• Esophagogastoduodenoscopy (EGD)

Contact a health professional if you or someone you love may be suffering from nerve damage due to alcoholic neuropathy. Upon diagnosis, addressing overconsumption of alcohol is also essential. There are plenty of treatment options available including outpatient and inpatient rehabs.

Nerve damage from alcoholic neuropathy can cause a slew of health conditions. Symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy include:

• Numbness or “pins and needles” sensation in the limbs
• Pain in the arms and legs
• Muscle problems, including cramps, aches, and spasms
• Issues with bladder control
• Heat intolerance
• Nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing or talking
• Trouble walking

These symptoms can become worse over time if left untreated. To take action as soon as possible, stop consuming alcohol immediately. Frequent consumption of alcohol is the driving cause of alcoholic neuropathy, leading to the risk of more serious symptoms through continued alcohol abuse.

Alcoholic neuropathy can cause pain in the arms and legs. The pain is caused by alcohol-induced changes to the nervous system, which processes pain signals. Alterations to the nervous system can lead to increased pain sensitivity and even cause pain from non-painful stimuli, also referred to as allodynia, a type of neuropathic pain.

Vitamin deficiencies from frequent alcohol use play a role in increased pain felt through alcoholic neuropathy. Deficiencies in vitamin B have been linked to allodynia.

While not always life-threatening, alcoholic neuropathy can cause permanent damage when left untreated. One of the ways it is left untreated is by continuous alcohol consumption. If you are struggling to quit alcohol, it may be time to seek help from an alcohol addiction treatment program.

Alcoholic neuropathy does not look the same in everyone. Individuals may experience different symptoms depending on their body and the impact that overconsumption of alcohol has had on it. Some symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy are more serious than others. The most serious symptoms are those impacting essential body functions.

Nerve damage from alcoholic neuropathy is permanent in most cases. Although it cannot be fully cured, someone suffering from alcoholic neuropathy can relieve their symptoms and prevent further progression by addressing the issue. Through lifestyle changes and alcohol addiction treatment, those with nerve damage can reduce and manage their symptoms.

There is no permanent cure for alcoholic neuropathy. But, with proper treatment and addressing the issue, individuals can see improvements in their symptoms. Typically, alcohol neuropathy takes a few weeks to a few months after quitting alcohol to notice reductions in symptoms. This also requires adhering to lifestyle changes, including nutritional therapy or a new diet plan to address any vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

The best way to experience improvements in symptoms is by seeking treatment through an alcohol addiction treatment program. These programs are designed to address the impact of alcohol addiction on the body, as well as the mind. Alcohol addiction treatment programs are run by experienced health and mental health professionals who can help address and treat symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy through a tailored program. Even through stopping alcohol use, individuals can already start on a path to a healthier life.