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Encyclopedia -> Disease -> A -> Alcoholic neuropathy Alternate Names: Neuropathy - alcoholic; Alcoholic polyneuropathy Causes and Risks: Alcoholic neuropathy may be caused by the toxic effect of alcohol on nerve tissue. It is usually also associated with nutritional deficiencies and may be indistinguishable from nutrition-related neuropathies such as beriberi. It can affect autonomic nerves (those that regulate internal body functions) and nerves that control movement and sensation. Habitual alcohol use, prolonged heavy use of alcohol, or alcoholism that is present for 10 years or more indicates high risk for alcoholic neuropathy. Prevention: Avoid or minimize alcohol use. Total abstinence from alcohol may be necessary for persons with alcoholism. Symptoms:
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Note: Changes in muscle strength and/or sensation usually occur on both sides of the body and are more common in the legs than in the arms. Symptoms may develop gradually and progressively become worse over time. Signs and Tests: Neuromuscular examination may reveal nerve dysfunctions. Reflexes may be abnormal, and focal neurologic deficits (localized nerve abnormalities) may be present. Neurologic deficits are usually symmetrical. Signs of autonomic dysfunction may be present. Eye inspection may show decreased pupil response or other abnormality. Blood pressure may show orthostatic changes (a fall in blood pressure when the person rises to a standing position). Lab tests may be performed as indicated by the history, signs, and symptoms to rule out other possible causes of neuropathy.
Other tests may be performed to determine the presence and extent of other neurologic losses. Treatment: Treatment goals (assuming the immediate alcohol problem has been addressed) include controlling symptoms, maximizing ability to function independently, and preventing injury. The following may occur during treatment. Physical therapy and/or use of orthopedic appliances such as splints may be necessary to maximize muscle function and to maintain useful positioning of the limbs. Medication may be used if necessary to treat pain or uncomfortable sensations. Response to medications varies. The least amount of medication needed to reduce symptoms is advised, to reduce dependence and other side effects of chronic use. Common medications may include over-the-counter analgesics such as aspirin (see salicylates - oral), ibuprofen, or acetaminophen - oral to reduce pain. Stabbing pains may respond to tricyclic antidepressants or anticonvulsant medications such as phenytoin, gabapentin or carbamazepine. A nutritious diet should be encouraged. Nutritional supplements may be recommended. Positioning, or the use of a bed frame that keeps the covers off the legs, may reduce pain for some people. Treatment of autonomic dysfunction (such as blood pressure problems, difficulty with urination, and slow gastrointestinal movement) may be necessary. Treatment may be chronic and long term, and response to treatment varies. Many treatments may be tried before finding one that is successful in reducing symptoms. Wearing elastic stockings, sleeping with the head elevated, or using medications such as fludrocortisone may reduce postural blood pressure changes (orthostatic hypotension). Manual expression of urine, intermittent catheterization, or medications such as bethanechol may be necessary to treat bladder dysfunction. Impotence, diarrhea, constipation, or other symptoms are treated when necessary. These symptoms may respond poorly to treatment. It is important to protect an extremity with reduced sensation from being injured. This may include checking the temperature of bath water to prevent burns, change in footwear, frequent inspection of shoes to reduce injury caused by pressure or objects in the shoes, or other measures. Extremities should be guarded to prevent injury from pressure. Use of alcohol should be stopped to reduce progression of the damage. Treatment of alcoholism may include psychiatric interventions, social support such as AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), medications, and behavior modification. Prognosis: Damage to nerves from alcoholic neuropathy is usually permanent and may be progressive if alcohol use continues. Symptoms vary from mild discomfort to severe disability. The disorder is usually not life threatening, but may severely compromise the quality of life. Complications:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms indicate alcoholic neuropathy may be present.
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