Wernicke Encephalopathy
24/03/2010
Wernicke encephalopathy is a syndrome which is caused by a vitamin B1 deficiency. Vitamin B1 is also known as Thiamine. A lack of Thiamine is common in those who are alcohol-dependent because their diet tends to be poor and excess alcohol can make the body less able to absorb vitamins and nutrients. A bout of Wernicke encephalopathy may or may not be followed by Korsakoff syndrome.
Wernicke encephalopathy symptoms include feeling confused, muscle twitches, droopy eyelids, double vision and more. Once Korsakoff syndrome develops, a person may have problems forming new memories and a common characteristic of the syndrome is to make things up to hide this. Hallucination is also common.
If you suspect someone you know is suffering from Wernicke encephalopathy you need to urge them to seek medical attention. Their nervous and muscular system will usually need to be examined and their nutrient levels will be checked. If Wernicke encephalopathy is confirmed, treatment will be aimed at easing symptoms and preventing the illness from progressing. Sufferers may need to stay in hospital for a while to get better.
Sometimes a direct injection of Thiamine is needed. If untreated Wernicke encephalopathy will usually get worse and can potentially be deadly. Those suffering from Wernicke encephalopathy are also advised to stop drinking and to try and eat balanced and nutritious diet.
