subject: What Occurs When You Have Alcoholic Neuropathy [print this page] Alcohol addiction has different side effects on individuals which may extend to the physical, psychological and social aspects of their life. Chronic alcoholism can lead to alcoholic neuropathy, which is also known as alcoholic polyneuropathy. When this illness is not treated, it may cause long-term complications like severe pain, disability and harm to the hands and feet.
Alcoholic neuropathy is a nervous system condition that results from serious alcoholism. This affects body nerves that include hands, feet, muscles, reproduction system and gastrointestinal system. Some specialists in alcohol rehabs claim that while the actual cause of the disorder is not known, it can be associated with alcohol-related nerve damage, vitamin deficiency and poor diet.
Sensory Nerve Damage
As alcoholic neuropathy results in nerve damage, it will not enable the body to recognize sensation. This damage usually manifests as numbness which can be felt through the legs and arms. The discomfort in these areas of the body also suggests the development of alcoholic neuropathy.
Dysfunctions of Body Organs
Alcoholic neuropathy can affect the autonomic nerves, which are responsible for the performance of the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, heart and other internal organs. According to experts from alcohol rehab centers, when the nerves that supply a person's gastrointestinal tract is harmed, the foods that are ingested may not be properly transferred to the stomach and intestines which will result in constipation. Meanwhile, damage of the nerves that supply the urinary tract can lead to difficulty urinating.
The autonomic nervous system controls the muscles located in the blood vessel walls, managing blood pressure. When these nerves are harmed, the blood pressure will not be properly regulated which may lead to orthostatic hypotension.
Muscular Dysfunctions
When a person's motor nerves are damaged, it can limit the functionality of muscles that get impulses from the nerves. Medical specialists say that this condition manifests as muscle spasms, weakness and involuntary contractions. When a person who abuses alcohol has these signs and symptoms, he may not be able to perform normal movements every day. Loss of muscle function is likely to cause speech impediments and difficulty swallowing. When a person suffers from alcoholic neuropathy for a long period of time, he may acquire muscle atrophy.
Available Treatments
Dealing with alcoholic neuropathy starts with finding medical help from professionals and addressing the alcohol issue. The treatment may include medications and vitamin supplementation to relieve discomforts and pain.
Alcoholic neuropathy that is left untreated may have severe complications that can be fatal. It is important to minimize the risk of these complications by following a treatment strategy that can be given by a medical specialist.
