Additionally, the kidneys may sustain significant harm and cease to function if they do not receive enough water. The body requires a steady balance of chemicals and salts in the blood for the nerves to work correctly. However, it becomes challenging to filter out all those toxins when renal disease is present.

• A systematic review suggests that 46.3% of people who engage in chronic heavy alcohol use have alcoholic neuropathy.
• Person’s compliance to treatment and consumption of alcohol is very crucial in the recovery process.
• Treatment includes abstaining from alcohol, taking vitamin supplements, physical therapy, pain management, and working with medical professionals to monitor the condition.
• While some neuropathic symptoms may improve with abstinence, in severe cases, the nerve damage can be long-lasting or even permanent.
• This condition is also referred to as “alcohol-related neuropathy” to help decrease the stigma surrounding the condition.
• While not specifically approved for the treatment of alcoholic neuropathy, antidepressant medications are often prescribed to help control the pain.

Reclaiming Your Health

They may also recommend other options, such as medications for alcohol reduction or what is alcoholism cessation maintenance, support groups, and psychotherapy. The road to recovering from alcoholic neuropathy may be difficult, but with the right support and resources, it is possible to regain control over one’s life and health. A comprehensive rehab program with a medical detox component can help alcoholics get sober and stay that way.

• She has over a decade of direct patient care experience working as a registered nurse specializing in neurotrauma, stroke, and the emergency room.
• As these functions are mainly controlled by the nervous system, damage caused to the nerves can affect these functions as well.
• Many support systems and professional services are available in person or online to help you on your journey.

Nutritional Therapy

As the condition progresses, these sensations can lead to pain, muscle weakness, and even muscle atrophy. The nerve damage can also affect autonomic functions, leading to problems with blood pressure regulation, bowel and bladder control, and sexual function. These physical symptoms, combined with the psychological impact of chronic pain and mobility issues, can lead to depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal, further diminishing life quality. In alcoholic neuropathy, the peripheral nervous system gets damaged, most probably due to alcohol abuse, as alcohol can be toxic for the nerves. Peripheral nerves carry signals from the body to the brain and spinal cord and bring signals back to the body. Neuropathy severely affects the way the nerves send signals to or receive from the brain.

How Can You Prevent Alcoholic Neuropathy and Reduce Risks?

Consider taking vitamin supplements to ensure adequate intake, but remember to consult your doctor before starting any supplementation regime. Additionally, regular exercise and proper diabetes management can significantly reduce the possibility of developing peripheral neuropathy. Engaging in physical activities and monitoring your blood sugar levels can contribute to maintaining good nerve health. Rehabilitation therapies, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling, play a crucial role in the recovery process. These therapies can help with improving mobility, muscle strength, and coordination, as well as addressing the psychological aspects of alcoholism. For instance, occupational therapy may help with learning new ways to perform daily tasks, while counseling can provide emotional support and strategies for dealing with addiction.

• With consistent abstinence from alcohol and treatment, some improvement in symptoms can be observed within a few weeks.
• Alcoholic neuropathy affects people who consume excessive amounts of alcohol over a long period of time.
• Individuals with alcoholic neuropathy can make a partial or full recovery, depending on the extent and duration of their alcohol consumption.

These programs include therapy, counseling, and alcohol neuropathy education on substance abuse and its impacts. This treatment is also essential to try to address the long-term effects of alcohol on the liver. Individual health and lifestyle factors also play a critical role in the recovery from alcoholic neuropathy.