Alcohol Abuse and Nervous System

Alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence has a direct effect on the central nervous system. It acts as a depressant and affects the nervous system as acute intoxication, symptoms of withdrawal and even damage to the nervous system in extreme cases.

A person who is intoxicated with alcohol has a flushed face, smells strongly of liquor, sweats excessively, exhibits symptoms of nausea and vomiting, etc. Apart from all this, he exhibits uneven gait while walking and sometimes even falls down. This is because of the slowing down of the motor nerve functions. The person also becomes disoriented and confused and may sometimes even black out.

A disorder of the nerves arising due to excessive drinking is called alcoholic neuropathy. This is a result of the reduction of the functions of the nerves due to the action of toxins present in the alcohol.

A person afflicted with alcoholic neuropathy feels less or no sensation in certain parts of the body and feels a tingling sensation in the hands and feet. The muscles become frail and the ankles therefore become weak. Alcoholic neuropathy also produces symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, frequent urination and impotence. In extreme or severe cases, the nervous system which is responsible for autonomous functions or involuntary functions like heart beat, is damaged beyond repair.

Alcoholic neuropathy can be diagnosed by performing a neurological examination which is actually nothing but a few physical examinations which are not painful. This examination evaluates the functions of the nerves including the autonomic nervous system, reaction of senses and strength of the muscles.

Another way to diagnose this condition is the through the electromyography. With this test, the electrical activity in the patient’s muscular system is evaluated. This test checks for whether the impulses are passed on back and forth between the muscles and the nerves properly. This test finds out effectively whether the condition is due to weak muscles or diseased nerves.

Another test is the nerve condition velocity test. This test evaluates how fast the impulses are transmitted in the nerves. This test is conducted simultaneously along with the electromyography test. In order to find out the extent of disorder biopsy is performed on the nerves, muscles and tissues.

Alcoholic neuropathy can be treated only by providing treatment for alcoholism. Keeping away from drinks is a good idea for treating this condition. Physiotherapy is generally administered to alleviate the pain in the muscles and joints. In case of extreme numbness, doctors may also prescribe some drugs. Above all, a balanced and healthy diet works wonders in treating alcoholic neuropathy.