Drinking alcohol is an accepted part of our society. Drinking moderately and occasionally is normal, but alcohol consumption can quickly get out of control for some. Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, is characterized by uncontrolled drinking and a preoccupation with drinking. For those struggling with alcohol addiction, recovery is difficult because those struggling have likely developed a physical and psychological dependence on alcohol. Alcohol addiction has significant side effects on an individual’s physical and mental well-being.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction, it is critical to seek professional help. Because of the severe impacts on the body, trying to detox and recover on your own can be unsafe. Long-term heavy drinking can lead to severe health concerns, like liver diseases, cancer, and wet brain. Going through detox and recovery can be scary and intimidating, but receiving treatment will help you build a healthier and happier sober life. At Rise Above Treatment, we provide a drug and alcohol detox center where clients receive medical attention and support.
What Is Wet Brain?
So, what is wet brain? Wet brain is another term for Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome or WKS. It is a brain disorder related to vitamin B1 or thiamine deficiency. A thiamine deficiency is common in people with poor nutrition and a common side effect of those struggling with long-term heavy drinking.
Wet brain syndrome is a life-threatening brain disorder that consists of two conditions. The first is Wernicke’s encephalopathy, a temporary condition where individuals experience confusion, loss of coordination, and vision changes. The other condition is Korsakoff’s psychosis. This chronic condition impacts a person’s memory and ability to function. While a person can develop wet brain due to malnutrition, it is typically associated with chronic alcohol drinking.
Understanding Wet Brain Syndrome
Thiamine is an essential vitamin that can only be obtained through your diet and is needed and used in all parts of the body. A thiamine deficiency can cause brain, heart, and nerve damage. The leading cause of thiamine deficiency in the United States is heavy alcohol consumption. Alcohol addiction can lead to thiamine deficiency because of poor nutrition and low absorption. Because of their higher risk of thiamine deficiency, those with alcohol addictions also have a greater risk of developing wet brain syndrome.
Wet Brain Symptoms
When a person has wet brain syndrome, their symptoms can appear similar to intoxication. However, wet brain symptoms will continue when a person has not been drinking. Paying attention to any symptoms that occur when not drinking can alert you that someone has wet brain syndrome.
Some of the typical wet brain symptoms include:
- Loss of muscle coordination
- Confusion
- Vision problems like double vision or rapid back-and-forth eye movement
- Hallucinations
- Memory problems
- Tremors
If you begin treatment before symptoms become too severe, wet brain symptoms can be reversed or alleviated. If you are struggling with alcohol addiction and wet brain, help is available. Seeking treatment at a professional facility where you can be monitored and receive medical attention is crucial. The treatment and recovery process is not easy, but it is worth it.
Learn More About Our Drug and Alcohol Detox Center at Rise Above Treatment
Wet brain is a serious condition typically associated with heavy alcohol consumption. Treatment and recovery from alcohol addiction are challenging and not easy. The safest and most effective recovery option is finding a drug and alcohol detox center that can provide you with the safety and care you need. At Rise Above Treatment, we provide high-quality care and support for all our clients. Contact Rise Above Treatment at (877) 641-0717 to begin your recovery journey today.
