Despite the prevalence of alcohol use disorder, many people fail to seek help due to social stigma or other barriers. However, seeking professional treatment for AUD is crucial in order to overcome this addiction, prevent serious health issues like wet brain, and improve one’s quality of life.
If you are seeking substance use disorder treatment in Michigan, consider Skywood Outpatient. Call us at 248.617.6237 or contact us online today to take the first step toward recovery from alcohol use disorder.
What Is Wet Brain?
Wet brain, also known as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome or alcohol-related dementia, is a severe neurological disorder caused by chronic alcohol abuse. It is characterized by damage to the brain’s white matter and thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency.
The leading cause of wet brain is excessive alcohol consumption, which can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb and utilize thiamine. Thiamine is an essential vitamin that helps convert carbohydrates into energy for the body’s cells. Without enough thiamine, the brain cells cannot function properly, leading to damage.
Other risk factors for developing wet brain include poor diet, malnutrition, and liver disease, which can also affect thiamine absorption. People with a history of AUD or those who have undergone gastric bypass surgery are also at higher risk.
What Are the Symptoms of Wet Brain?
There are a variety of symptoms associated with wet brain. These symptoms can vary in severity and may appear suddenly or develop gradually over time. It is important to note that not all individuals will experience the same symptoms; some may exhibit only a few, while others may have several.
Some common symptoms of a wet brain include:
- Confusion and disorientation
- Memory problems, including difficulty forming new memories
- Changes in mood and behavior, such as irritability or apathy
- Difficulty with coordination and balance
- Vision changes, including double vision or eye movement abnormalities
- Muscle weakness or tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Difficulty with speech and language
- Hallucinations or delusions
In addition to these general symptoms, there are also specific symptoms that may appear depending on which type of wet brain a person has. These include:
- Wernicke’s encephalopathy – This is the acute form of wet brain and includes symptoms such as confusion, weakness, vision changes, and difficulty walking.
- Korsakoff’s psychosis – This is the chronic form of wet brain and often occurs after Wernicke’s encephalopathy. Symptoms may include severe memory loss, confabulation (making up stories to fill in gaps in memory), and difficulty with executive functioning.
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Wet brain can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition if left untreated. With proper treatment, some individuals may experience improvement in symptoms and quality of life. However, for others, the damage caused by wet brain may be permanent, making early detection and intervention crucial.
Treatment for Wet Brain
While there is no cure for wet brain, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing further damage to the brain. The most crucial aspect of treatment is thiamine replacement therapy. This involves administering high doses of thiamine through injections or oral supplements to correct the deficiency.
In addition to thiamine replacement therapy, individuals with wet brain may also benefit from cognitive rehabilitation programs and other supportive therapies. These programs can help improve memory, motor skills, and overall functioning.
It is essential for individuals with wet brain to abstain from alcohol completely to prevent further damage to the brain. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, some individuals may see a significant improvement in their condition.
Get Help For Alcohol Use Disorder at Skywood Outpatient Today
At Skywood Outpatient, we understand the complexities of AUD and offer specialized treatment programs tailored to each individual’s needs. Our team of professionals works together to provide comprehensive care that addresses the underlying causes of AUD, helping you to avoid long-term health consequences and achieve lasting sobriety. Contact us today at 248.617.6237 or online to begin treatment.