Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome

From Drug Rehab Wiki

Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome is an alcohol-induced condition involving the loss of specific brain functions. Nerve damage and impaired nerve functioning cause a wide array of symptoms. The syndrome is caused by a thiamine deficiency that occurs with chronic and excessive use of alcohol. There are multiple and pervasive problems associated with this condition. Some of these involve mental abilities and are manifested as:

• confusion or delirium

• memory loss

• inability to make new memories

• confabulation (making up stories to compensate for poor memory)

Other symptoms of Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome involve impaired motor and muscle functioning such as:

• muscle weakness

• tremors

• spasms and cramps

• difficulty walking (unsteady gait)

• paralysis in the face

• loss of muscle tissue or muscle atrophy

• involuntary movement of the eyes

The symptoms of this syndrome are systemic. Some additional problems associated with this condition are listed below. These indicate how pervasive Wernicke Korsakoff is.

• vision changes

• body perception changes such as abnormal sensations or decreased sensation

• malnourishment

• dry skin

• difficulty speaking

• difficulty swallowing

• mood swings

• hallucinations

• rapid pulse

• low body temperature

• low blood pressure

• dizziness

This condition is often viewed as similar to Substance-Induced Persisting Amnestic Disorder which also includes impairment of memory and the inability to learn new information. The diagnostic criteria for that disorder, however, do not include the motor, muscle and other physiological symptoms of Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome.

The symptoms of Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome can be confused with symptoms of alcohol withdrawal; however, in withdrawal such symptoms typically subside after successful detoxification.

The prognosis for Wernicke Korsakoff Syndrome is most frequently poor. Early diagnosis and treatment may reverse only some of the brain and nerve damage caused by prolonged and excessive drinking. Abstinence from alcohol and high doses of thiamine to stop progression of the illness are usual treatment recommendations.

Many individuals with this condition will require supervision and/or intensive medical care such as hospitalization or nursing facilities. Supervision is often required to support the patient in activities of daily living and to provide safety since mental abilities are significantly compromised. Further, motor and muscle problems can impair an individual with this syndrome so severely that assistance is required to perform even simple tasks.

See also Alcohol-related liver disease