People with a long history of alcohol abuse often have serious health challenges. Some of these might include heart and cardiovascular diseases, kidney issues, and liver conditions. Other issues may include mental health or other consequences. One of the least known causes of most people is alcoholic neuropathy. Gradually, the condition gets worse as the person drives more heavily. Find out more about this condition and how people can find help.
Signs of Alcoholic Neuropathy
One of the best ways to combat alcoholic neuropathy is to know what to look for in a loved one’s behavior. Often, they will exhibit signs and symptoms. Some of these include:
- The weakness of hands or feet
- Lack of coordination
- Dizziness
- Trouble walking
- Urinary incontinence
Other effects of alcoholic neuropathy will include nerve damage. Neuropathy means damage to the nerves, including hypersensitivity, muscle weakness, and decreased sensations. Diminished sensation actually causes serious consequences.
Causes
Years of steady drinking of alcohol can cause neuropathy to develop. Some heavy alcohol users experience a faster onset and progression of the condition. It is not clear why some people are more prone to this than others. More often, alcoholic neuropathy is caused by nutritional deficiency related to long term heavy alcohol consumption. This also includes toxic build-up in the body. Alcohol decreases the absorption of nutrients and causes deficits in the body. Nerve damage impacts the axons, which project and send signals from one nerve to another. The nerve damage may be permanent if taking place over a long period of time.
Treatment Options
Several medical treatments can be used to manage the pain of alcoholic neuropathy. When someone goes for the treatment of addiction, they might also get treatment for underlying conditions, including neuropathy. They may provide:
- Antidepressants
- Anti-seizure meds
- Vitamin supplements
- Other therapies as prescribed
Sometimes alcohol causes severe damage to the body that a liver transplant will be necessary. Often neuropathy is so advanced there may not be a help. That is why it is pertinent to seek help right away for alcoholism. People who struggle with addiction need help from professionals, especially if it has been going on for a long time. They can offer treatment options for chronic health conditions, underlying medical issues, and mental health disorders which need treatment also. The key is to notice signs early to prevent long-lasting damage to the nerves and body. With the right support, people can find healing from alcoholic neuropathy and learn ways to function better and find hope in recovery.
The Guest House Ocala knows people struggle with addiction in various stages, forms, and with various issues. We do not stigmatize or shame people when they seek help. We simply open the doors and let people in who are ready to get well. Call us to find out how to get started: 1-855-483-7800