Left untreated, neuropathy can eventually cause permanent nerve damage, leading to loss of function in the body. Neuropathy occurs when nerve damage prevents nerves from accurately detecting external stimuli. “Nerves aren’t coordinating the appropriate sensations. This can result in a range of sensations, from numbness to burning and shooting sensations,” as Dr. Vo describes it. If you notice numbness, tingling, burning, or pain that just won’t quit—especially in your feet or hands—don’t wait. Red flags include sudden weakness, falls, open sores, or severe pain.
- Remember that recovery is possible, and plenty of support is available.
- That means you may experience intestine, stomach, and bladder problems.
- Over the next month or so I kept drinking only making my neuropathy worse.
- In 2006, he took a position at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital as the medical director for the brain injury programs.
Management and Treatment
It also helps to be aware of the lifestyle factors and behaviors that can aggravate symptoms of neuropathy. Some symptoms might fade if you quit drinking and stick with your doctor’s advice. But you can always take steps to make things better—managing pain, using supportive devices, and giving your nerves the love (and rest) they need. There are several treatment options for alcoholic neuropathy. But first, those diagnosed with alcoholic neuropathy must stop drinking.
How long does alcoholic neuropathy recovery take?
Malnutrition due to alcoholism can contribute to nerve damage and alcoholic polyneuropathy as well. The US National Library of Medicine (NLM) warns that around 50 percent of long-term heavy drinkers will suffer from alcoholic neuropathy. Alcoholic neuropathy can also weaken the autonomic nerves which impair the bladder function and bowel.
Learn About the Latest in Peripheral Nerve Research
According to experts, alcohol abuse can cause various neurological disorders such as cognitive impairment, confusion, and cerebellar ataxia. So, the nervous system is bound to suffer when you consume too much alcohol. The diagnostic process may involve neurological examination, blood tests, and electromyography. She has over a decade of direct patient care experience working as a registered nurse specializing in neurotrauma, stroke, and the emergency room. Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.
Risk factors
- The illustration depicts the damaging effects of alcoholic neuropathy on the nervous system.
- However, there are a few conditions that fall under peripheral neuropathy that are severe and need immediate medical attention.
- The effects of peripheral neuropathy depend on the cause, the nerves it affects, your medical history, treatments you receive and more.
- It can cause chronic pain, problems with normal bodily functions, and in severe cases even disability.
Maintaining proper hydration throughout the day is essential for lowering inflammation and preventing pain receptor activation. The bladder, marijuana addiction stomach, and intestines are among the organs in the body whose activities are regulated by autonomic nerves. Alcoholic neuropathy can impair sexual function as well as bladder and bowel function by weakening the autonomic nerves.
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However, their success depends on the type of nerve damage and the severity of symptoms, according to the FPN. Nutrient deficiencies — whether caused by disease-related malabsorption, alcohol use disorder, or an unbalanced diet — can also lead to what does alcohol neuropathy feel like neuropathy. Sensory symptoms, caused by damage to sensory nerves, usually begin in the feet before progressing to the legs, hands, and arms. However, vulnerability to neuropathy and its severity and speed of progression varies. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol-related neuropathy or alcohol misuse or addiction, it’s important to know that help is available. Evidence-based addiction treatment can lead to positive health outcomes for those struggling with alcohol addiction.
Warning Signs For Alcoholic Neuropathy
A great way to establish these connections is by participating in support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous or other sobriety-focused organizations. This may well reveal damage-patterns consistent with alcoholic neuropathy across the nerves of the affected area. The exact causes of alcohol-related neuropathy aren’t fully understood. However, researchers have found that consuming too much alcohol for long periods of time can damage the peripheral nerves. Some treatments can greatly reduce or even stop symptoms, but this varies. Your healthcare provider is the best source of information on the outlook for your case and what you can do to help.