Have you ever heard the term, “alcoholic dementia?” You may wonder, “What is alcoholic dementia? Does it affect me?” Alcoholic dementia is a brain disorder that develops as a result of long-term excessive drinking. While dementia can affect many areas of a person’s life, it is not always a terminal condition. A patient who receives quality care and stops drinking can make a partial or full recovery. Furthermore, they may not suffer further symptoms in the future.
While dementia can affect young drinkers, middle-aged people are more likely to get the condition. This is because it may take years for excessive drinking to take a toll on the brain. Alcoholic dementia can damage parts of the brain that are responsible for memory and cognition. The condition requires ongoing medical care. In addition, a heavy drinker may need to enter an alcohol treatment center in Illinois to recover from alcoholism.
How Excessive Drinking Affects a Person’s Health
Drinking at high levels can pose a high risk to a person’s psychological and physical health. One way that alcohol abuse affects the brain is that it leads to insufficient levels of Thiamin, which provides energy to nerve cells. Without the right amount of Thiamin, a person may experience problems with memory or the ability to think clearly.
Heavy drinkers also can potentially damage blood cells due to excessive amounts of alcohol in the nervous system. This can lead to high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of stroke or heart attack. All of these conditions can damage parts of the brain.
Symptoms of Alcoholic Dementia
The symptoms of dementia vary from person to person based on the circumstances of their addiction and health. Common symptoms of alcoholic dementia may include:
Poor Judgment
After years of drinking, a person may develop poor judgment and decision-making skills. They may lack organization or have the inability to plan for events. They may also be unable to assess risk in situations that may be dangerous or cause harm.
Impulsive Behavior
Alcoholism can lead to a form of dementia that takes on symptoms similar to borderline personality disorder. For instance, they may make rash decisions or find it difficult to control their emotions. They may be irritable or go into emotional outbursts.
Problems Paying Attention
Lack of focus or ability to pay attention has long been linked to substance abuse. A person with a history of alcoholism often has problems focusing for any length of time. Furthermore, they may not pay attention when talking to someone. The person may drift off in the middle of an activity.
Lack of Sensitivity
A person who suffers from dementia may not have the ability to empathize with other people. They may also act out in ways that are rude to others or shows a lack of sensitivity. Socially inappropriate behavior is a common symptom of dementia.
Alcoholic Dementia Treatment
Luckily, alcoholic dementia is highly treatable and even reversible if you catch it early enough. Intensive treatment is critical. People who have alcoholic dementia must completely stop drinking and eat a healthy diet that feeds the brain and body the nutrients it needs. It’s critical to have a reliable support system in place, as slipping up could result in a more permanent case of alcoholic dementia.
Getting Help At Northern Illinois Recovery Center
When you’re ready to get help, it’s necessary to work with a qualified alcohol treatment center. At Northern Illinois Recovery Center, we’re here to help you get back on your feet. When you begin treatment, you’ll work with your counselor to create a plan tailored to your needs. Most of our clients find that they make progress using multiple types of therapies, including:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavioral therapy
As you progress through your treatment, you’ll meet regularly with your counselor to ensure that you’re continuing to make progress. Together, you’ll adjust your treatment plan as necessary to keep you moving toward a healthy, sober life.
It’s Time To Change – Give Us A Call
If you’re ready to stop the adverse effects that drinking has created in your life, Northern Illinois Recovery Center is here to help. We understand the complicated nature of addiction, and we want to help you get back on your feet. When you call us at 855.786.1978, you’ll talk with one of our caring counselors who will explain our programs to you. Then, you’ll have the option of getting started with treatment if you decide that what we offer is a good fit for your needs. Recovery is possible, and alcoholic dementia does not have to be a part of your life. Pick up the phone and make the change.
