Can Alcohol Cause Dementia?

November 2, 2021

Harmony Place Team

Alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances in the United States, largely due to how easy it is to access. Go to any grocery store, gas station, convenience store, or drug store and if you are of legal age you can pick up a variety of alcoholic drinks including beer, wine, seltzers, canned mixed drinks, and liquor. Even if you are not of legal age it is still pretty easy to get your hands on alcohol in some capacity.

Heavy alcohol use over time can lead to significant health issues, including memory problems. Can alcoholism cause dementia though? In this blog, we will answer that question as well as take a look at other ways that alcohol can damage the brain and talk about treatment options as well.

What Is Alcohol-Related Dementia?

As the name suggests, alcohol-related dementia is a form of dementia that is largely brought on by the repeated and excessive consumption of alcohol over a long period. Alcohol-induced dementia can affect a person’s memory, ability to learn, as well as other mental functions. Korsakoff’s Syndrome and Wernicke-Korsakoff’s Syndrome are two well-known forms of alcohol-related dementia.

How Exactly Can Alcohol Lead To Dementia?

Any sort of brain damage or dementia that directly died to an alcohol-related condition is considered alcohol-related brain damage or ARBD. When a person consumes an excessive amount of alcohol they are actively preventing the neurons in the brain from regenerating, thus killing them off. Over time, killing off enough of those neurons can lead to brain damage, including memory loss and other symptoms associated with dementia.

While many people associate dementia with those who are older, ARBD is becoming more and more common amongst those who are middle-aged with middle-aged women being the largest affected demographic. This is largely due to the differences in their body fat composition, height-to-weight ratio, and their hormones.

Just like Alzheimer’s and other more “traditional” forms of dementia, alcohol-related brain damage produces similar symptoms due to how alcohol affects the cholinergic system which plays an important role in memory.

What Are Some of the Symptoms As It Pertains To Dementia and Alcoholism?

The symptoms associated with alcohol-related dementia can differ from person to person based on how much damage has been done to the brain and any other ailments they also might be suffering from. That being said, some of the more common symptoms associated with dementia and alcoholism include:

Anxiety
Paranoia
Depression
Inappropriate behavior
Changes in personality
Changes in motor functions
Mixing up time and locations
Short-term memory problems
Long-term memory problems
Difficulty thinking clearly and logically
An impaired ability to learn new things
Having trouble communicating or coming up with the right words
Having problems with balance
Getting lost in familiar areas
A decrease in spontaneity
Poor decision-making
Cognitive problems

If you or someone you know has begun to display any of these symptoms you should reach out to your doctor immediately. It could be the signs of the development of alcohol-related brain damage.

What Is The Connection Between Alcohol-Related Dementia and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome?

As we touched on above, both alcohol-related dementia and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome are two forms of alcohol-related brain damage. The biggest difference between the two is the speed at which the damage occurs and the cause.

While alcohol-related dementia is a more long-term ailment with it setting in gradually over time as the brain becomes more and more damaged as a result of more and more of the neurons being killed off, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is much faster acting.

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome tends to set in either during or right after detoxing occurs. However, the chances of the syndrome developing decreases greatly if detox is done under the care and supervision of a trained medical professional.

Like alcohol-related dementia, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome produces many of the same symptoms including:

Confusion
Disorientation
Memory loss
Lack of balance

Additionally, people suffering from Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome might also experience things like extreme weight loss and eye muscle jerks or paralysis. When Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome sets in, it can lead to permanent brain damage that isn’t likely to reverse even if you stay sober for years.

Are There Ways To Test For Alcohol-Related Dementia?

The good news is, many different types of tests are available to help determine if alcohol-related dementia has begun to set in before it’s too late. The majority of these tests focus on examining a person’s nervous system in addition to their muscular system. Many of these tests incorporate the drawing of blood to test things like vitamin levels and nutrition as well as liver and enzyme testing.

Is Alcohol-Related Dementia Permanent?

While more traditional forms of dementia that occur due to old age are permanent, there is the possibility that alcohol-related dementia can be reversed, at least partially. Seeking out addiction treatment early on can go a long way in helping reverse some of the effects of alcohol-related dementia. In addition, getting back on the right track from a health perspective can help as well.

This includes things like eating a well-balanced diet as well as taking vitamins and other supplements. This is all done as a way to nourish your brain in an attempt to get it to begin to heal. While there is no guarantee that this will heal the brain and reverse all the damage it has been proven to be at least somewhat effective in reversing some of the damage.

Are There Treatment Options for Alcohol-Related Dementia?

As we just mentioned above, the earlier you catch and begin to treat alcohol-related dementia, the better your chances are of reversing at least some of its effects. The best way to go about doing this is to enter into an alcohol-related treatment program.

Before entering into a treatment program though, the first step in the overall recovery process is to detox the body and mind from any harmful substances that are in it. Due to the nature of detoxing and the side effects associated with it, detox should be done under the care and supervision of trained medical professionals.

This can be done at a local medical facility, a dedicated detox center, or a treatment facility that also provides detox services such as Harmony Place. Attempting to self-detox can be incredibly dangerous and even life-threatening. Additionally, it can increase the chances of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome developing.

Once detox has been completed, the next step is to enter into a treatment program to address the alcohol-related issues. A treatment professional will create a treatment plan for you custom-made for you and your needs. As part of your alcohol-related treatment plan, you will increase your thiamine levels through supplements and vitamins such as B1 in addition to your therapies and meetings. Raising your B1 and thiamine levels will help reverse some of the alcohol-related dementia issues such as memory loss.

It’s also important to remember that not all issues related to alcohol-related dementia can be reversed. Even if some of the ailments can’t be reversed, getting treatment can helo so they do not continue to get worse. Treatment will also help teach you how to live without the need for drugs and alcohol anymore.

Can Alcoholism Cause Dementia?

Over time, and when left untreated, repeated excessive alcohol use can lead to permanent brain damage that can result in dementia and other issues. When treated early enough though, there is a chance that at least some of those symptoms can be reversed or at the very least slowed down.

At Harmony Place, we understand the importance of getting treated for any alcohol-related issues as quickly as possible once they begin. That’s why we offer a variety of programs designed specifically for those suffering from things like alcoholism, alcohol abuse, and alcohol addiction.

In addition to our many traditional treatment methods such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization, and reprocessing (EMDR) we also offer a variety of alternative and integrated therapies including:

Yoga
Acupuncture
Chiropractic Care
Massage Therapy
Mindfulness

Alcoholism recovery Treatment in Los Angeles, CA

Alcohol should never stand in the way of achieving your greatest life ambitions. For those struggling with alcoholism, it is essential to acknowledge the impact it can have on your goals and well-being. Harmony Place offers alcohol addiction treatment in Los Angeles, CA, designed to equip individuals with the necessary tools to overcome their dependence and regain control of their lives. With support options such as Cigna alcohol addiction rehab, you can find a path to recovery that aligns with your needs.

At Harmony Place, our team of compassionate and highly trained professionals is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way. We understand that each journey is unique, which is why we provide a range of treatment options, including specialized care for conditions like alcohol-induced dementia. With comprehensive support and a focus on integrated healing, Harmony Place takes health insurance from providers like BCBS and accepts Aetna plans, ensuring that financial concerns do not hinder your access to top-tier care.

Taking the first step towards recovery can significantly enhance your life quality, enabling you to pursue a happy, healthy, and sober future. Harmony Place is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of insurance and payment options, accepting coverage from Optum and Anthem insurance cover. Understanding the average cost of alcohol addiction treatment and exploring options for paying for alcohol recovery treatment can ease financial stress, allowing you to concentrate on achieving long-term sobriety and personal fulfillment. Reach out to us today to begin your transformative journey.

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I've been to 12 rehabs over the last 20 years and NO other place has touch like Harmony Place! From the owner right down to the cleaning lady, everyone here is kinda and warm. God has blessed this place and I feel privileged to have come through here. I recommend anyone who is going through their struggle with mental health or substance abuse to pick up the phone and come! You won't regret it!

Joseph S

This place is incredible, kind, loving, patient, rigorous, educative, caring and the best place for recovery. Ill be part of the alumni crew

Monica G

I had very good experience at Harmony Place From first day I came, staff was very kind and make me feel welcome and safe. Everyone was friendly and always try to help me. The therapists are very good and caring. They listen to me and help me understand my problems better. I learn many things from them and feel stronger because of their support. The nurses also very nice and professional. They always check on me and make sure I am okay. Food was good and facilities were clean and comfortable. It help me feel more relaxed and focus on my recovery. Management also doing very good job. Everything was organized and you can see they really care about patients. I am very thankful for this place and all the people who work here. I recommend this center to anyone who needs help.

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Tyler

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Jodana S

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Cass

I’ve been to 4 treatment centers before Harmony Place, and I can tell you without a single doubt that this is the absolute best by FAR. The past ones were luxury Residential Treatment centers that just treated every single client the same not tailoring to each individual, and were basically just in it for the money, dropping the ball each time. I can also tell you that I’ve never met the CEOs, but here, David comes to the facility almost every single day, and makes sure he get to know every individual here. He is incredibly kind, and was even willing to transfer me to another facility with a higher level of trauma therapy due to me having a lifetime of trauma and PTSD that just is going to take a long time to tackle. He truly cares about all of the clients having all of the tools that we need before getting released to the real world. No more of other CEO would ever be willing to miss an opportunity at making more money and even paired with my IMPECCABLE case manager to find a different facility that was more trauma based. My case manager, Sam, goes absolutely above and beyond in every single aspect. She makes sure you have a smooth transition into aftercare, provides out of this world advice when it comes to sobriety, and takes the time out of her day to make sure that FMLA and short-term disability are completely taken care of during your stay. I’ve never met a case manager that could ever compare to Sam. Ever. I feel lucky to have met her, genuinely. Marissa, my therapist, is SO SWEET, actually listens to you, and provides advice and therapy tailored to each individual’s experience. She’s handled every mood I’ve been in, never judged me, and allowed me to feel safe enough to tell her things I’ve never told any person or therapist in my 29 years of life. I’ve been going to therapy for the past 15 years, and none of those therapists even come close to how amazing she is. I’ve been to 4 other treatment centers in my life and none even come close to Harmony Place. The facility is clean, organized, and high-end. I would recommend Harmony place to my family, friends, and anyone seeking treatment. I feel SO BLESSED to have landed in their hands. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE IN THE CLINICAL STAFF BEYOND WORDS. I love you guys ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️. I feel more confident than ever in my Recovery.

Gabe H

Where to begin.. Harmony is a place that will forever be a part of my story as the first step in my recovery journey. I’m so grateful for this program. The staff is very friendly, and many of them understand what addiction is like, for they themselves have recovery stories of their own. They have an awesome team of therapists, group facilitators, nurses, RA technicians, medical and health professionals, a wonderful case manager for aftercare that cares deeply for your next steps; making sure you are set up for success. They have a wonderful admissions team (shoutout to Marielle who was so kind and understanding of my messed up situation). Everyone is very relatable and friendly. They invest heavily in the importance of diet and nutrition too - there’s a full time professional chef. I gained all the weight I lost and wanted back in the first two weeks lol. On top of the intensive programming they do throughout the day, they take us out to experience various kinds of outside groups to get a taste of the real world, and also take us on social outings during the weekend. If you’re serious about getting better this place will meet you where you’re at and prepare you to launch with a renewed mind and heart.

Monica P

I can't begin to explain just how amazing Harmony Place is. In fact, when we sit down with the owner, Jeff, and clinical director, David, on Monday mornings to have a house meeting, they ask us what they could be doing better. A bigger blender for smoothies is the ONLY thing we could come up with. Let me begin by addressing some negative reviews. If you notice many of them are from people, or are referring to people who have been asked to leave. It is because of harmony places protection of their clients that provide ideal conditions for healing and progress. There is a screening process that it is implemented where they make sure the clients they admit are ready to start a life of sobriety. Some people slip through the cracks. Some people find out a few days or weeks in that they've changed their minds. Some are inappropriate and break rules. It happens. When Harmony Place ask people to leave, It's because they are protecting the people who are here that want treatment. In effect, they're providing exactly what I needed for a genuine start to recovery. When I began my search for a treatment center, my requirements were that the facility's provide an environment in which its residents all want to be there and that it is ethically ran. I got that and so much more at Harmony Place. As well as a structured routine, they also provide a confidential and nurturing environment where one feels safe and where profound healing can begin. Their program offers a sound foundation where further progress in sober living is almost guaranteed. In group meetings, we enjoy getting to know ourselves again and with deeper understanding about why we are the way we are. We are provided with skills to handle real life. Its here that I've come to understand that its not addiction that has driven me to make a mess of my life. It is the trauma that I endured and not processing it correctly that lead to poor thinking patterns that opened the door to addiction resulting in poor life management. So we start at the bottom. Trauma. They help us understand that trauma has led to our own toxicity, what that trauma looks like and how to get out of our own way. Process groups help us learn how to take accountability and foster healthier relationships. I learned here that changing the way I think is absolutely possible and imperative to the healing process. Harmony Place offered me hope when I previously felt I was unfixable and a support team that truly loves me. Even after I leave here, I have contacts that almost demand I keep in touch and an alumni meeting where I can return to the facility on Thursday nights. I wasn't a 12 stepper when I came here but my first experience with it was not one where I was ready to stop using. I understand now that the steps will work for me. It's certainly is not the only modality that they teach. In one group, we are provided an opportunity to sit with a recently retired medical doctor to just ask questions. Another is with a nutritionist. There are a handful of people IN recovery that come to lead groups that are all accredited highly specialized where I felt understood and not judged. The knowledge I have gained here is life changing. It is also versatile and relatable for all types of people. my favorite group was dialectical behavioral therapy. There are breathing classes and sound bath groups and I started doing yoga in the morning. There's a dharma meeting they take you offsite that focuses on Buddhist values. A fantastic onsight chef provides three meals and you can have special requests. We facilitated our own Movie nights during free time. I cant forget to mention you get your own one on one meetings with your assigned primary therapist and there is comprehensive medical support complete with 24/7 nurses and a doctor that shows up throughout the week. If this is what you need to recover and you have mediCAL, cancel your mediCAL and get insurance Harmony Place accepts if you can. There are people to help you with that as well. Just call. Many, many thanks to the staff. ✔️Another life changed.🙏

Cody B

This is such an amazing place truly changed my life. I would recommend this place to anybody if they’re looking for a strong recovery house that truly cares about your recovery and not about just money So if you’re ready to change your life, don’t miss out on the greatness of harmony because this place is where it’s at