About 1-2 percent of the population is affected by wet brain, according to research by the National Organization for Rare Disorders. Men suffering from alcohol abuse, between years, are slightly more affected than women of the same age. Of those who develop Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, about 25 percent require long-term treatment in a hospital setting. There’s no single test for the syndrome, but a good indication, particularly when disorientation and confusion are apparent, is testing vitamin B1 levels in the blood. Research conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association estimates that when caught early enough, approximately 25 percent of people will recover, 50 percent will improve and 25 percent will stay the same.
Signs and Symptoms of Korsakoff Psychosis
Although treatment will not change brain damage or memory loss that occurs from Korsakoff’s psychosis, it can prevent or delay any further progression of wet brain. Most people consume enough thiamine to prevent the development of this condition. However, people who struggle with alcohol use disorder may focus on consuming alcohol instead of eating a balanced diet, with whole grains and lean proteins. In other cases, alcohol can upset the stomach and the person may experience loss of appetite, or vomiting, which can reduce sources of thiamine. The liver stores some thiamine, although not very much, and damage to the liver from long-term alcohol abuse can prevent storage and release of this vitamin nutrient into the body.
CU Anschutz Medical Campus
At this stage, a person with this condition might find it difficult to walk or become confused when engaging in daily activities such as getting dressed. The early stages of wet brain are known as Wernicke encephalopathy. Wernicke encephalopathy causes brain damage in the lower parts of the brain called the thalamus and hypothalamus. The signs of wet brain can be hard to spot, especially if you have chronic alcoholism. This is what does the term wet brain mean because early symptoms of wet brain are similar to those of intoxication.
Blood Tests to Check Thiamine Levels
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, also known as wet brain syndrome, can have significant long-term effects on individuals who develop the condition. Understanding these effects and the risk factors for development is crucial in raising awareness and promoting early intervention. Thiamine supplementation is considered the primary method of treating Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. Immediate treatment with thiamine is crucial, as it can relieve symptoms and help prevent permanent damage to memory and other brain functions 4. Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is primarily caused by a deficiency of thiamine. Heavy alcohol consumption is a common risk factor for this condition, as alcohol interferes with the absorption and utilization of thiamine in the body.
- It may develop after weight loss (bariatric) surgery or as a side effect of chemotherapy.
- If you’re concerned about your alcohol consumption, talk to a doctor or counselor.
- The early stage, known as Wernicke encephalopathy, is more intense but reversible.
- It can also occur as a result of severe or repeated Delirium Tremens from alcohol withdrawal.
- Along with thiamine, people with WKS often need other nutrients to help their bodies heal.
- People who regularly abuse alcohol for long periods of time are more likely than others to get wet brain, although it can also be caused by intense periods of vomiting or poor nutrition.
- The grim reality of chronic alcohol abuse is that the body can only handle so much; and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a tragic, heartbreaking consequence of the abusive nature of alcoholism.
- Those who struggle with alcohol use disorder, though, are at risk of thiamine deficiency.
- Traditional regimens in the United States typically involve 100 mg of parental thiamine for 3-7 days, followed by oral thiamine indefinitely as long as the patient continues to consume alcohol.
- A combination of Wernicke encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome is diagnosed in alcoholics suffering a long-term, vitamin B deficiency and alcohol-induced damage to their brain.
- However, additional medications may be needed to treat other symptoms.
Not everyone who uses alcohol will develop wet brain, but the only way to get wet brain is by drinking alcohol. What about heavy drinkers and those concerned about the physical and mental issues they’re beginning to experience from alcohol consumption? There’s no certainty that an alcoholic will develop Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. It is, however, more likely to occur with long-term alcoholics who’ve failed to get treatment for their addiction. When a person is in the final stages of a wet brain, they will need 24/7 nursing care. Alcohol is a neurotoxin that shrinks the brain (a phenomenon known as “cerebral atrophy”) and slowly destroys the frontal lobe, cerebellum and limbic system.
Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
The danger of alcohol, even in the short term, includes alcohol poisoning and accidents or injury occurring due to being intoxicated, such as falls or driving under the influence. Early intervention is critical to halting the effects of wet brain, as is quitting alcohol. To detox from alcohol safely, always consult a specialized rehab center. Encourage them to seek medical help and stick with their treatment plan. Creating a safe and stable environment is key for their well-being. Supporting someone with a chronic illness can be stressful, so don’t hesitate to seek support for your own well-being.
What is “Wet Brain”?
Someone with confabulation will often repeat these made-up memories, thinking they are real. This gives them the appearance of lying when it is actually related to their brain damage. The early stage, known as Wernicke encephalopathy, is more intense but reversible.
These scans can help detect any brain abnormalities or damage that might be due to WKS. They can also help rule out other conditions that might cause similar symptoms. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations to manage complications and treat symptoms.