Home » Sober living » Alcoholic Neuropathy: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

alcoholic neuropathy recovery time

Alcohol is a toxin and it can have mild to severe effects on our body, depending on the severity of abuse. In mild cases, alcohol can cause lower inhibitions, concentration troubles, loss of coordination, reduce core body temperature, cause vomiting, and even causing sufferers to pass out. This disorder manifests itself in many different ways, and it can impair an individual’s ability to live normally. If you or a loved one are seeking recovery services that accept your medical insurance, reach out to Infinite Recovery today. If you’re experiencing symptoms or are concerned about how alcohol may be affecting your health, contact us today.

alcoholic neuropathy recovery time

Direct Toxicity

People can successfully regulate their drinking habits and abstain from alcohol at an inpatient facility. This will help control the disease and lessen the effects of nerve damage. Heat sensitivity, unusual feelings like “pins and needles,” and numbness or painful sensations in the arms and legs are common signs of sensory problems.

  • However, nerve damage is often permanent, making a full recovery unlikely.
  • Alcohol addiction treatment is a crucial aspect of recovery for individuals struggling with alcoholism.
  • Preventing alcoholic neuropathy involves reducing or eliminating alcohol intake and maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins, especially B vitamins.
  • As the condition progresses, the pain may vary in intensity, sometimes diminishing for months before worsening again.

Recovery Journey After Alcohol Addiction: From Detox to Rehabilitation

alcoholic neuropathy recovery time

Another prominent effect of alcoholic neuropathy involves painful and uncomfortable sensations. Alcoholic neuropathy can result in hypersensitivity to touch and even resting pain. Light touch can feel exaggerated and painful, particularly in the alcohol neuropathy fingers and toes. The toughest first step is the obvious one — the patient must stop drinking.

alcoholic neuropathy recovery time

What physical characteristics distinguish alcoholic neuropathy?

  • Neuropathy can be partially reversed if treated early and alcohol consumption is stopped, but in advanced cases, the nerve damage may be permanent.
  • Physical therapy is an essential component of recovery from alcoholic neuropathy.
  • A comprehensive approach that includes medical detox, nutritional rehabilitation, and addiction therapy is essential for long-term recovery.
  • Prompt intervention not only increases the chances of reversing nerve damage but also helps individuals begin the process of healing from alcohol dependence.

There’s no exact timeframe for how quickly alcohol-related neuropathy develops. However, stopping consuming alcohol sooner can help stop the progression of nerve damage. Symptoms of alcohol-related neuropathy are similar to those of peripheral neuropathy. These can affect both your controlled and involuntary movements, as well as sensations. Over time, the effects of drinking too much alcohol may cause alcoholic neuropathy. This condition is also referred to as “alcohol-related neuropathy” to help decrease the stigma surrounding the condition.

alcoholic neuropathy recovery time

Is alcoholic neuropathy permanent?

  • However, some people notice an improvement in symptoms a few months after discontinuing alcohol intake.
  • Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing the compassionate care and expert guidance you need to start your journey to recovery.
  • Recovery time for alcoholic neuropathy varies widely based on the severity of nerve damage and whether the individual abstains from alcohol.

The primary treatment for alcoholic neuropathy is to stop or significantly reduce alcohol consumption. This often requires professional help, such as inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation, medication, support groups, and psychotherapy1. While abstaining from alcohol can help improve symptoms and prevent further damage, some alcohol-induced nerve damage may be permanent2.

Alcoholic myopathy causes muscle weakness, cramping, and stiffness, often leading to difficulty with movement and physical tasks. Patients with alcoholic myopathy may experience fatigue and muscle pain, especially after physical activity. These organizations can help connect individuals with support groups, educational materials, and healthcare professionals specializing in neuropathy. Several support groups and resources are available to help individuals with alcoholic neuropathy and their families. These resources can provide valuable information, support, and coping strategies. An Sobriety earlier analysis from 2017 suggested that taking B vitamin supplements may help with nerve regeneration.

  • We believe that proper recovery begins when individuals are empowered with the right tools, resources, and environment.
  • Thiamine deficiency plays a major role in alcoholic neuropathy, so replenishing this vital nutrient is crucial.
  • Alcohol decreases the absorption of nutrients such as magnesium, selenium, and vitamins B1 and B2, causing significant deficits that affect many areas of the body, including the nerves.
  • Alcoholic neuropathy affects people who consume excessive amounts of alcohol over a long period of time.
  • This condition manifests when ethanol in alcohol and its metabolites, like acetaldehyde, harm nerve tissues, disrupting their normal functions.
  • This is called alcoholic neuropathy – a disorder where alcohol the nervous system is so disrupted by alcohol’s toxins, the body cannot function normally.