What Is Wet Brain (Wet Brain Syndrome)?
Wet brain syndrome, or Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS), is a severe and potentially fatal neurological disorder caused by acute and chronic vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency. Poor nutrition can be the root of this condition, but long-term heavy drinking is known to lead to the development of Wet brain syndrome. Catching the problem early on may allow for symptoms of Wet brain syndrome to be reversed. At the same time, those left untreated experience progressively worsening and irreversible confusion, coordination issues, and even hallucinations until their debilitating finale.
Next, we will discuss wet brain syndrome in detail, including:
- What is wet brain (What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome)?
- What is wet brain’s meaning (What is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome meaning)?
- What are wet brain symptoms (What are Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome symptoms)?
- Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome life expectancy.
Wet Brain Meaning (Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome)
What Is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome? WKS describes symptoms of alcoholic brain damage from heavy drinking. Wet brain’s meaning, in simple terms, is the inability to remember information or make decisions, with an overall disturbance in motor functioning. Wet-brain syndrome, or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is a brain disorder due to vitamin B1 deficiency.
The Truth About Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome: Beyond the Stigma of ‘Wet-Brain’
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, often called “wet-brain,” is a serious and life-threatening brain disorder often misunderstood. The term “Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome” is a stigmatizing label that wrongly suggests that those with the condition have purposely brought it on through alcohol abuse. This label can prevent individuals from getting the needed treatment and perpetuate the false idea that addiction is a moral failure rather than a medical condition.
WKS encompasses two conditions:
- The first, Wernicke’s encephalopathy, is characterized by confusion, loss of muscular coordination, and vision changes.
- The second, Korsakoff’s psychosis, can result in memory and learning difficulties.
Both conditions occur due to a thiamine deficiency linked to extended alcohol use and certain health conditions. While only 1%-2% of the general population develop WKS, those with prolonged alcohol abuse are at a higher risk, with a prevalence rate of 12%-14%. Continue to learn more about Wet-Brain Syndrome.
What Causes Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
WKS symptoms are usually caused by heavy and prolonged alcohol abuse. Drinking alcohol blocks the absorption of essential vitamins like thiamine. The thiamine deficiency leads to malnutrition and damage to the brain’s areas responsible for forming memories and making decisions.
Alcohol Wet Brain Syndrome
WKS brain damage is caused by heavy and prolonged alcohol abuse. It results from alcohol blocking the absorption of essential vitamins like thiamine. Thiamine deficiency causes malnutrition, leading to Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome damage.
Thiamine, a crucial nutrient for your entire body, can only be obtained through diet. If you become deficient in thiamine, your brain, nerves, and heart may suffer serious damage. Sadly, in America, alcohol abuse is the primary cause of thiamine deficiency that leads to Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.
Alcohol misuse can cause thiamine deficiency by affecting your diet and your body’s absorption ability. The inflammation in your digestive tract from alcohol use makes it challenging for your body to absorb thiamine, and your heavy drinking can also stop your body from utilizing thiamine effectively. Thiamine plays a critical role in creating enzymes to process energy from sugar and creating essential chemical messengers in your brain and genetic material in your cells.
Wet Brain Syndrome Symptoms (Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Symptoms)
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome symptoms can resemble intoxication but persist without drinking. The condition can lead to physical and mental decline, reduced consciousness, coma, and even death.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome symptoms include confusion, memory loss, difficulty walking, and others. Treatment includes abstaining from alcohol and taking vitamins and minerals to reverse the effects of thiamine deficiency.
Lack of vitamin B1 is common in people with alcohol use disorder and can cause a wet-brain from alcoholism. It is also common in people whose bodies do not absorb food properly (malabsorption). This can sometimes occur with a chronic illness or after weight-loss (bariatric) surgery.
Common Wet Brain Syndrome Symptoms
What are the symptoms of wet-brain? WKS symptoms are divided up into two categories:
Symptoms of Wernicke encephalopathy include:
- Confusion and loss of mental activity can progress to coma and death
- Loss of muscle coordination (ataxia) that can cause leg tremors
- Vision changes such as abnormal eye movements (back and forth movements called nystagmus), double vision, eyelid drooping
- Alcohol withdrawal
Symptoms of Korsakoff syndrome include:
- Inability to form new memories
- Loss of memory can be severe
- Making up stories (confabulation)
- Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy is a medical condition caused by thiamine deficiency, typically due to alcohol misuse.
Wernicke’s encephalopathy is a degenerative brain disorder. It may result from alcohol abuse, dietary deficiencies, prolonged vomiting, eating disorders, or the effects of chemotherapy. B1 deficiency causes damage to the brain’s thalamus and hypothalamus.
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Symptoms
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy symptoms are characterized by difficulty with eye movement, ataxia, confusion, and mental impairments.
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy: What You Need to Know About This Neurological Disorder
If you or someone you know shows signs of confusion, loss of muscle coordination, and visual disturbances, it could be due to Wernicke’s encephalopathy (WE), a short-term neurological disorder. Three hallmark symptoms characterize this condition:
- Mental confusion and apathy.
- Inability to coordinate movements while standing or walking.
- Dysfunction in eye movement and vision.
Some people with WE may experience paralysis in nerves controlling the eyes, causing involuntary eye movements, drooping eyelids, and difficulty tracking objects. In severe cases, coordination issues can cause staggering and may even result in losing the ability to walk.
A person must not exhibit all three symptoms to be diagnosed with WE. Holistic evaluation is critical, as many cases go undiagnosed.
Wernickes Encephalopathy Treatment
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy treatment involves abstaining from alcohol and replacing thiamine and other vitamins and minerals. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged parts of the brain.
Skip To:
Learn More:
- What is Wet Brain in Alcoholics?
- Alcohol Withdrawal Brain Fog
- Dry Drunk Syndrome
- Wet Brain Awareness
- 60 Days Sober Brain
- Alcohol and Insomnia
- How to Relieve Stress Without Alcohol?
- How to Help a High Functioning Alcoholic?
- How Long Does Alcohol Stay On Your Breath?
- Alcoholism and Financial Problems
- Emotional Effects of Alcohol
- How To Relax Without Alcohol?
- Kindling Alcohol
- Alcohol Abuse
- Mixing Prescription Drugs with Alcohol
- Alcoholic Organic Brain Syndrome
- Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder
- Alcoholism Treatment Near Me
- Alcohol Detox Withdrawal Treatment
- Inpatient Alcohol Rehab Center
- Alcoholism Treatment, Signs, Complications & Rehab Programs
- Alcohol Poisoning Treatments
Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.
Searching for an Accredited Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers in Near You?
Even if you have failed previously and relapsed, or are in the middle of a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. When you feel ready or just want someone to speak to about therapy alternatives to change your life call us. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you to wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.
(844) 597-1011Severe Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Symptoms
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy symptoms depend on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include problems with balance and coordination, difficulty speaking and understanding others, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating or focusing. In severe cases, seizures and coma can occur. Treatment involves abstaining from alcohol and replenishing the body with thiamine and other necessary vitamins and minerals.
WE is caused by thiamine deficiency and can be reversed through prompt treatment. Don’t wait – seek medical attention immediately if you suspect WKS.
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Treatment
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy treatment involves abstaining from alcohol and replacing thiamine and other vitamins and minerals. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged parts of the brain.
Korsakoff Psychosis Symptoms
Over 80% of alcohol misusers who suffer from WE may develop Korsakoff’s psychosis, a type of neuropsychiatric dementia. This condition, also known as alcoholic dementia or alcohol amnestic disorder, can result in a range of symptoms that hinder a person’s ability to function. These symptoms include amnesia, hallucinations, and changes in behavior, which may be permanent if left untreated.
Memory-related problems, such as difficulty recalling memories and forming new ones, can cause confabulation, the creation of stories to fill gaps in memory. People with Korsakoff’s psychosis may display behavioral changes, like becoming apathetic, irritable, or less emotional. It can also lead to residual conditions that may harm the person.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (also called Korsakoff’s amnesic syndrome) is a memory disorder that results from vitamin B1 deficiency and is associated with alcoholism. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is also known as Wet-Brain Syndrome or Alcohol-Related Brain Syndrome. Korsakoff’s syndrome damages nerve cells and supporting cells in the brain and spinal cord, as well as the part of the brain involved with memory.
Although Wernicke’s and Korsakoff’s are related disorders, some scientists believe they are different stages of the same alcohol-related disease, called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
Wernicke’s encephalopathy represents the “acute” phase of the disorder, and Korsakoff’s amnesic syndrome means the disorder developed into a “chronic” or long-lasting stage. [1] Thus, when asking what is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome? The entirety of the Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome stages defines WKS’s meaning.
Korsakoff Psychosis Amnesia & Dementia
Korsakoff psychosis, also known as Korsakoff’s syndrome, is a non-progressive neurological disorder typically caused by prolonged, heavy alcohol use. The condition usually follows Wernicke’s encephalopathy.
Korsakoff psychosis affects memory and cognitive abilities and manifests in a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Anterograde amnesia: difficulty remembering new information.
- Retrograde amnesia: difficulty in recalling past events.
- Confabulation: the tendency to fabricate or invent information unconsciously to fill gaps in memory.
- Lack of insight/judgment
- Disorientation to time and place
- Difficulty with attention, concentration, or organization
- Hallucinations
- Depression
The damage to the brain caused by Korsakoff psychosis is irreversible, resulting in dementia. Treatment focuses on rectifying vitamin B1 deficiency through thiamine replacement therapy and nutritional rehabilitation. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive rehabilitation, memory training, and reality orientation, can help manage the cognitive and memory deficits of Korsakoff psychosis.
This condition can be dangerous and challenging to manage without treatment, and it can significantly decrease the quality of life of affected individuals.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome vs. Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is a chronic form of the disorder and is caused by repeated bouts of thiamine deficiency. It is characterized by several cognitive impairments, including short-term memory loss, difficulty with complex problem-solving, and confusion. Wernicke’s Encephalopathy is a more acute form of the disorder. It is usually caused by a single instance of severe thiamine deficiency and presents with altered mental status and other neurological symptoms.
It should be noted that several stages of WKS symptoms have slightly varying profiles. These include Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (a wet and dry form) and Acute Wernicke’s Encephalopathy. Treatment of these forms usually also involves abstaining from alcohol and replenishing the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals. However, the specifics may vary depending on the type and severity of the disorder.
Get Your Life Back
Find Hope & Recovery. Get Safe Comfortable Detox, Addiction Rehab & Dual Diagnosis High-Quality Care.
Hotline(844) 597-1011Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome vs. Wernicke’s Encephalopathy Wet Brain Stages
The symptoms of Wernicke’s Encephalopathy typically progress gradually over some time in stages. Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome are not different conditions. Rather, they are different stages of the same disease process. Both are due to brain damage caused by a lack of vitamin B1.
Wernicke’s encephalopathy is often divided into acute, subacute, and chronic stages. The acute phase is characterized by confusion, ataxia, and sometimes eye movement problems and occurs within weeks or days of thiamine deficiency. The subacute phase is characterized by confusion, confusion, disturbances of vision, and a gait abnormality. It can occur up to two to three months after the onset of thiamine deficiency.
The chronic phase is characterized by progressive memory and language disturbances and may have a slow onset and persist for years after the onset of thiamine deficiency. Common symptoms include language disturbances, disorientation and confusion, ataxia, spells of staring, deficits in visual processing, movement abnormalities, behavior disturbances, and disturbances of higher intellectual functions such as problem-solving and judgment.
Thiamine deficiency can cause complications such as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, delirium, seizures, and coma. Treatments for the chronic phase of thiamine deficiency include dietary supplementation, vitamin and mineral supplements, antidepressant medications, and psychotherapy. In some cases, thiamine injections may be necessary to improve symptoms. While supportive care can improve many problems associated with thiamine deficiency. Unfortunately, neurological and cognitive deficits may persist even with treatment.
Korsakoff syndrome tends to develop after symptoms of Wernicke encephalopathy go away. Wernicke encephalopathy causes brain damage in the lower parts of the brain, called the thalamus and hypothalamus. Korsakoff syndrome results from permanent damage to areas of the brain involved with memory
Alcoholism Wet Brain
Lack of vitamin B1 is common in people with alcohol use disorder, which can cause Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome from alcoholism’s blockage of critical vitamins and minerals. While alcoholism Wet-Brain symptoms are common in alcoholics, the culprit can also be the inability to absorb food properly (malabsorption). This can sometimes be seen with a chronic illness or after weight-loss (bariatric) surgery.
Get Help. Get Better. Get Your Life Back.
Searching for an Accredited Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers in Near You?
Even if you have failed previously and relapsed, or are in the middle of a difficult crisis, we stand ready to support you. Our trusted behavioral health specialists will not give up on you. When you feel ready or just want someone to speak to about therapy alternatives to change your life call us. Even if we cannot assist you, we will lead you to wherever you can get support. There is no obligation. Call our hotline today.
(844) 597-1011Wet Brain Stages
Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome has two stages. First, there will be a brief time when a person has intense brain inflammation. This is known as Wernicke’s encephalopathy. If this condition isn’t treated quickly, the person may develop a more long-term condition called Korsakoff’s syndrome. This has many of the same symptoms as dementia.
Early Stages of Wet-Brain Symptoms
Wernicke encephalopathy is an acute neurological condition characterized by a clinical triad of ophthalmoparesis with nystagmus, ataxia, and confusion. This is a life-threatening illness caused by thiamine deficiency that primarily affects the peripheral and central nervous systems. [2]
Thiamine deficiency is characteristically associated with severe alcohol use disorder. Although Wernicke encephalopathy mostly affects people with a thiamine deficiency due to chronic alcoholism, various other causes include severe malnutrition, hyperemesis gravidarum, prolonged parenteral nutrition, malignancies, immunodeficiency syndromes, liver disease, hyperthyroidism, and severe anorexia nervosa.
Chronic alcohol consumption may cause thiamine deficiency due to impaired absorption of thiamine from the intestine, a possible genetic predisposition, inadequate diet, reduced storage of thiamine in the liver, and other nutritional deficiencies.
Final Stages of Wet-Brain Symptoms
Korsakoff syndrome is a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with memory disturbances in which there are significant deficits in anterograde and retrograde memory. Immediate memory is maintained, but short-term memory is diminished with intact sensorium. The disorder is associated with patients fabricating stories in the setting of clear consciousness. Confabulations can be spontaneous or provoked, with provoked confabulation commonly seen in chronic Korsakoff syndrome, and spontaneous confabulation is usually noted in the acute Wernicke state.
First-class Facilities & Amenities
World-class High-Quality Addiction & Mental Health Rehabilitation Treatment
Rehab Centers TourRenowned Addiction Centers. Serene Private Facilities. Inpatient rehab programs vary.
Addiction Helpline(844) 597-1011Proven recovery success experience, backed by a Team w/ History of:
- 15+ Years Experience
- 100s of 5-Star Reviews
- 10K+ Recovery Successes
- Low Patient to Therapist Ratio
- Onsite Medical Detox Center
- Comprehensive Dual-Diagnosis Treatment
- Complimentary Family & Alumni Programs
- Coaching, Recovery & Personal Development Events
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy and Korsakoff Psychosis Disorders.
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is the clinical name for wet-brain symptoms. The disorder comprises two stages: Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s psychosis.
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy
Wernicke’s Encephalopathy symptoms show up as two distinctive components. Wernicke’s encephalopathy (WE), a temporary neurological condition, is the first part of WKS. The three defining characteristics of Wernicke’s encephalopathy are eye movement dysfunction and vision abnormalities, lack of muscular coordination while standing or walking, and mental disorientation and indifference.
People with WE may experience paralysis of the nerves that control their eyes, resulting in uncontrollable eye movements, drooping eyelids, and difficulties tracking objects. People with WE may stagger when they walk or, in more severe cases, lose their ability to walk due to coordination problems.
Even though WE has three distinguishing features, a person does not need to display all three symptoms to be diagnosed with the condition.
According to studies, many cases of wet-brain alcoholism were misdiagnosed since none of the three symptom types were present, making a patient’s overall health examination even more crucial. Wernicke’s encephalopathy is treatable and brought on by thiamine deficiency, but fast treatment is required for the best possible results.
Korsakoff Psychosis
80% to 90% percent of patients with Wernicke’s encephalopathy and alcohol addiction develop Korsakoff’s psychosis, a kind of neuropsychiatric dementia. When WE are not treated promptly and effectively,
Korsakoff’s psychosis is thought to develop as a residual illness, causing various symptoms that may harm a person’s ability to function. Alcoholic dementia or alcohol amnestic disease are other names for this syndrome.
Forgetfulness, hallucinations, and behavioral alterations characterize Korsakoff’s psychosis. Memory problems can include problems remembering recent events (retrograde amnesia) and having trouble creating new memories (anterograde amnesia), which can result in confabulation, and creating stories to fill in memory gaps.
Since the condition damages the parts of the brain that affect memory, Korsakoff’s psychosis is associated with memory problems. People with this illness may exhibit specific behavioral changes, such as being apathetic, irritable, or expressing less emotion than usual, without even being aware of any symptoms.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Dangers
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome gets steadily worse without treatment and can be life-threatening. With treatment, it is possible to control symptoms such as uncoordinated movement and vision difficulties. Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome disorder can also be slowed or stopped.
Complications that may result include:
- Alcohol withdrawal
- Difficulty with personal or social interaction
- Injury caused by falls
- Permanent alcoholic neuropathy
- Permanent loss of thinking skills
- Permanent loss of memory
- Shortened life span
Is WKS Reversible?
Korsakoff syndrome is most commonly seen in the context of chronic alcohol abuse and is thought to be on the spectrum with Wernicke encephalopathy. However, Wernicke encephalopathy is acute and often reversible, while Korsakoff syndrome is chronic and may be irreversible. [3]
When & Can WKS Be Reversed?
Most symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy can be reversed if detected and treated promptly and completely. Stopping alcohol use may prevent further nerve and brain damage.
However, improvement in memory function is slow and usually incomplete. Without alcoholism and WKS treatment, these disorders can be disabling and life-threatening.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Treatment FAQs
What is Wet-Brain Dementia?
WKS dementia affects long-term, chronic drinkers after their illness. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is the official name for the condition, which has two distinct stages. Wernicke encephalopathy is the name of the initial stage, in which brain damages result in the symptoms listed below:
-A lack of coordination and balance.
-Irregular or involuntary eye twitches and movements.
-Faulty reflexes.
-Alterations in heart rate.
-Muscle tremor.
-Having trouble walking or having an abnormal gait.
-Confusion and issues with cognitive processing.
It is now feasible for the disease’s effects to be reversed and for the patient to restore normal functioning, provided the disease is identified and promptly treated (often with a series of thiamine injections).
What is the life expectancy for someone with Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
There is no clear-cut WKS life expectancy; while some fully recover from the illness, others experience symptoms due to brain damage. Usually, within the first two years after diagnosis or treatment, a person will start to feel better. If the condition is left untreated, 10 to 20 percent of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome patients will not live.
How is alcohol abuse connected to Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?
Alcohol abuse is the main contributor to thiamine deficiency in the US, which leads to Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome development.
What are the symptoms of Wet-Brain?
The symptoms of wet-brain are divided up into two categories:
Symptoms of Wernicke encephalopathy include:
-Confusion and loss of mental activity can progress to coma and death
-Loss of muscle coordination (ataxia) that can cause leg tremors
-Vision changes such as abnormal eye movements (back and forth movements called nystagmus), double vision, eyelid drooping
–Alcohol withdrawal
Symptoms of Korsakoff syndrome include:
-Inability to form new memories
-Loss of memory can be severe
-Making up stories (confabulation)
-Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
How long does it take to get Wet-Brain?
Depending on the severity of your alcohol misuse disorder, it could develop over a few days or weeks.
What is the connection between Wet-Brain and anger?
Long-term signs and symptoms of Korsakoff’s psychosis can include:
-Issues with short-term memory
-Making up fake memories
-Hallucinations
-Anger and rage
-Behavioral shifts
-Increase in chattiness
What does Wet-Brain feel like?
The three defining characteristics of WE are eye movement dysfunction and vision abnormalities, lack of muscular coordination while standing or walking, and mental disorientation and indifference.
How is Wet-Brain diagnosed?
There isn’t a single, all-encompassing test to diagnose wet-brain symptoms. However, based on a patient’s physical appearance, a doctor might think they are malnourished or lacking in thiamine. A clinician may be alerted to a potential thiamine shortage by a patient’s heart rate, eye movements, body temperature, or even how they walk. However, one could recover by abstaining from alcohol and maintaining a healthy diet for effective long-term WKS treatment.
Do I Have Wet-Brain Symptoms?
A person with an alcohol use disorder cannot receive a valid diagnosis for wet-brain symptoms until they have completed their rehabilitation. This is the case because many wet-brain symptoms resemble alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Effective treatment of WKS symptoms requires an early diagnosis of the illness.
If you have Wernicke’s Encephalopathy, your doctor will likely request tests to evaluate your thiamine levels. The most common cause of wet-brain symptoms, alcohol use disorder, may also be examined for symptoms. It can be recommended that you get a brain MRI to check for brain tissue damage.
Is Wet-Brain Permanent?
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is a chronic form of brain damage from long-term alcoholism, even though many physical effects of excessive drinking can be reversed if the individual stops drinking and receives therapy.
Does Wet-Brain Show Up On MRI?
Long-term, excessive alcohol consumption causes brain damage, most of which can now be seen by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and is a factor in dementia’s early start.
What Is The Medical Term For Wet-Brain?
The medical term for wet-brain symptoms is Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS).
WKS Treatment
WKS treatment depends on the underlying condition. Many conditions are treated mainly with rehabilitation and supportive care to help the person with activities lost due to areas where brain function is affected. Medicines may be needed during WKS treatment to reduce aggressive behaviors that can occur with some conditions.
Abstaining from alcohol and maintaining a healthy diet is a cornerstone of effective long-term WKS treatment. For those suffering from addiction or alcoholism, the We Level Up treatment center is here. As a licensed and accredited rehabilitation center, we are dedicated to helping you meet your goals one day at a time.
World-class, Accredited, 5-Star Reviewed, Effective Addiction & Mental Health Programs. Complete Behavioral Health Inpatient Rehab, Detox plus Co-occuring Disorders Therapy.
CALL(844) 597-1011End the Addiction Pain. End the Emotional Rollercoaster. Get Your Life Back. Start Drug, Alcohol & Dual Diagnosis Mental Health Treatment Now. Get Free No-obligation Guidance by Substance Abuse Specialists Who Understand Addiction & Mental Health Recovery & Know How to Help.
The goals of WKS treatment are to control symptoms and prevent the disorder from getting worse. Some people may need to stay in the hospital early in the condition to help control symptoms.
Monitoring and special care [4] may be needed if the person is:
- In a coma
- Lethargic
- Unconscious
Vitamin B1 is usually given by injection into a vein or a muscle as soon as possible. This may improve symptoms of:
- Confusion or delirium
- Difficulties with vision and eye movement
- Lack of muscle coordination
Vitamin B1 often does not improve the loss of memory and intellect with Korsakoff syndrome. Stopping alcohol use can prevent more loss of brain function and damage to nerves. A well-balanced, nourishing diet can help but is not a substitute for stopping alcohol use.
The We Level Up treatment center can help with inpatient therapy programs exclusively. Because each client is different and requires unique, comprehensive care according to their situation, our staff of well-trained physicians and nurses first begin the client relationship with a detailed one-on-one assessment.
Alcohol Detox
Withdrawal from alcohol is an important first step to overcoming your alcohol-related problems. However, withdrawal isn’t an effective WKS treatment by itself. You’ll need further alcoholism and WKS treatment and support to help you in the long term. [5]
There are two significant signs of alcohol addiction: tolerance and withdrawal. Alcohol addiction is a dangerous condition because it can ultimately become life-threatening. So, alcohol detox allows the body to eliminate all alcohol and return to its usual functioning.
An individual struggling with a moderate to severe alcohol use disorder (alcohol addiction) has a significant likelihood of developing withdrawal symptoms and could benefit from the help of a detox program.
Once fully admitted and evaluated, the 2nd stage of detox gets underway: stabilization. Based on the data provided during the admissions process, patient feedback, and the symptoms observed, our experienced medical addiction professionals will provide care to keep the patient stable and comfortable. [6]
The longer and heavier the drinking, the more prolonged and more severe detox will be. For this reason, going through the process sooner than later, and getting help, is critical to recovery.
Our FREE 24-hour Hotline can help you with the resources for alcoholic organic brain syndrome and WKS treatment. We can help you answer addiction-related questions such as “What is wet-brain in alcoholics?” Get a free consultation for your best-fitting treatment, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome programs, and free rehab insurance verification.
Call We Level Up today and speak with one of our addiction Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome specialists to check your rehab insurance coverage and benefits.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely used treatment for alcohol abuse and addiction to help individuals identify negative thought patterns, emotions, and problematic behaviors and learn how to make healthy lifestyle changes that decrease the urges to drink alcohol and use other substances, paying particular attention to symptoms of psychosis, depression, and other co-existing mental health-related problems or dual diagnosis that are exacerbated by stress.
Counseling Services
What WKS cures are available for treatment? Most mental health and substance abuse treatment programs offer individual, group, and family counseling services to “get to the root of the problems,” improve communications and relationships, and motivate the abuser toward positive changes.
The structured guidance of a counselor helps the patient stay on track and in the right perspective as they strive to achieve their potential and recovery goals.
We Level Up addiction specialists will discuss the program’s cost based on the best personalized Wernicke’s Encephalopathy treatment for you.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome Alcohol Withdrawal Video
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome alcohol withdrawal treatment process video
There are multiple videos available online that explain Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome and alcohol withdrawal. You can search YouTube or other video-sharing platforms to find videos that accurately explain this topic.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is caused by severe vitamin B1 deficiency, often associated with alcohol misuse or alcohol use disorder. Chronic alcohol use can result in poor nutrition and vitamin deficiencies, leading to the development of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.
Symptoms of the condition include:
- Mental confusion
- Memory loss
- Difficulty walking or moving
- Vision problems
- Involuntary eye movement (nystagmus)
- Abnormally fast heart rate
Wernicke’s encephalopathy is a severe condition characterized by acute cognitive changes and neuromuscular symptoms, including confusion, memory loss, vision problems, and difficulty with balance and coordination. If untreated, this can lead to Korsakoff syndrome, which causes permanent memory loss and learning difficulties.
WKS, or Alcoholic Wet-Brain symptoms, can lead to significant physical and neurological damage. Some of the dangers of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome include:
- Permanent brain damage and cognitive impairment: Long-term heavy alcohol use can cause irreversible brain damage, leading to memory loss, inability to learn new information, and decreased brain function.
- Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies: Chronic alcohol consumption can disrupt the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, leading to vitamin deficiencies that can further damage the nervous system.
- Decreased life expectancy: WKS significantly reduces life expectancy, particularly in cases with severe symptoms or a delay in treatment.
- Increased risk of stroke and other neurological illnesses: Long-term heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk of stroke, seizure disorders, and other neurological diseases.
It’s essential to seek medical attention if any symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome or other alcohol-related disorders are present. Treatment often involves therapy, vitamin supplementation, and rehabilitation programs to help individuals stop drinking and manage cognitive deficits.
Preventing this dangerous condition requires addressing the underlying issue of heavy alcohol consumption by seeking help and support from medical professionals, support groups, and addiction treatment programs.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome can occur after heavy, prolonged alcohol use is stopped suddenly. Alcohol withdrawal can cause a range of physical and mental symptoms, including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Delirium tremens (in severe cases)
Medical detox supervision may be necessary during alcohol withdrawal, as serious and potentially fatal complications can occur. Severe alcohol withdrawal may require inpatient treatment, including using benzodiazepines and other medications to ease symptoms safely.
It is critical to seek medical help if you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol addiction or experiencing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
Experience Transformative Recovery at the We Level Up Treatment Center.
See our authentic success stories. Get inspired. Get the help you deserve.
Start a New Life
Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up treatment center network delivers recovery programs that vary by each treatment facility. Call to learn more.
- Personalized Care
- Caring Accountable Staff
- World-class Amenities
- Licensed & Accredited
- Renowned w/ 100s 5-Star Reviews
We’ll Call You
Sources:
[1] Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome – National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
[2] Wernicke Encephalopathy – National Center for Biotechnology Information
[3] World Health Organization. (1951). Expert committee on mental health: Report on the first session of the alcoholism subcommittee. World Health Organization Technical Report Series, 42. 1-24.
[4] Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome – U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health
[5] Alcohol Misuse – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alcohol-misuse/treatment/
[6] Stabilization Treatment Program – We Level Up New Jersey
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2004). Alcohol’s damaging effects on the brain.
Michael D. Kopelman, Allan D. Thomson, Irene Guerrini, E. Jane Marshall, The Korsakoff Syndrome: Clinical Aspects, Psychology and Treatment, Alcohol and Alcoholism, Volume 44, Issue 2, March-April 2009, Pages 148–154.
Martin, P.R., Singleton, C.K., & Hiller-Sturmhöfel, S. (2003). The role of thiamine deficiency in alcoholic brain disease. Alcohol Research and Health, 27(2), 134-142.
Dementia.org. (2020). Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
Arts, N.J., Walvoort, S.J., & Kessels, R.P. (2017). Korsakoff’s syndrome: A critical review. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 13, 2875-2890.
Wiley, K. (2020, June 22). Vitamin B1 Thiamine Deficiency.
Vasan, S., & Kumar, A. (2020). Wernicke encephalopathy. Treasure Island, FL: StatPearls Publishing.
Alzheimer’s Association. (2020). Korsakoff syndrome.
Bilici, R., Saridogan, G.E., Turan, C., Goncu, T., Akdur, O., Citak, S., & Domac, F.M. (2015). A case of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome treated 1 year after the onset of symptoms. The Primary Care Companion for CNS Disorders, 17(6), 1-8.
Medline Plus – https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000771.htm
Harm Reduction for Alcohol – http://hams.cc/wetbrain/
VeryWell Health – https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-wernicke-korsakoff-98769
Peter R. Martin, M.D., Charles K. Singleton, Ph.D., and Susanne Hiller–Sturmhöfel, Ph.D. – https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh27-2/134-142.htm
National Organization for Rare Disorders – https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/wernicke-korsakoff-syndrome/
Table of Contents
