It’s no secret that excessive alcohol consumption isn’t good for our health. Dehydration, lacklustre skin and a fatty liver can result from indulging in more than your body can handle. But did you know that alcohol consumption increases your risk of developing dementia? Increased alcohol intake is responsible for causing a brain injury called Alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD). This article discusses facts about ARBD and the risk factors associated with its development
Quick Facts
Alcohol-related brain damage may be more common than you think. Statistics reveal that up to one in ten people have acquired an alcohol-related brain injury. ARBD is usually diagnosed in adults sometime in their fourth and fifth decades. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with ARBD than women. However, women with ARBD are typically diagnosed earlier than men. The harmful effects are also thought to develop sooner in women and with less consumption. While the cause of ARBD is directly related to extreme alcohol use, it should be noted that not everyone who consumes excessive amounts will end up with ARBD.
What Are The Symptoms Of ARBD?
ARBD looks similar to Alzheimer’s Disease, another type of dementia. In many cases, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two without a comprehensive medical history being noted. Symptoms include memory loss and trouble with cognitive function, such as following conversations and executing tasks. Activities or daily responsibilities previously conducted, some daily for many years, may prove difficult for someone with ARBD. The ability to make important decisions or follow instructions may be affected. As with Alzheimer’s, people with ARBD can exhibit strong responses, such as outbursts of anger or irritation.
Pathology Of ARBD
Studies and imaging of brains affected by ARBD show similarities to other dementias. One of the closest is the visible shrinking of the brain. The frontal lobes, which are the largest in the brain, are the most common parts of the brain that are atrophied in those diagnosed. The frontal lobes are responsible for memory recall, analytical thinking and voluntary motor movement. This relates directly to some of the symptoms experienced by those living with ARBD. Imaging of brains also shows a considerable loss of white matter and neuronal density, which also affects cognition.
ARBD Can Be Reversed
The good news is that unlike other dementias such as Alzheimer’s Disease or Frontotemporal Dementia, ARBD does not naturally worsen over time. Studies show that people who stop drinking can not only prevent ongoing damage to their brains, but the pathology can also be reversed for people with less advanced damage. It’s even possible that a full recovery can be made and cognitive functioning can be restored. This type of reversal for people living with ARBD is seen in those who work closely with their healthcare professionals and maintain sobriety to ensure no worsening or relapse occurs.
Is There A Safe Level Of Consumption?
It’s easy to get mixed messages regarding safe levels of consumption. A quick internet search is bound to produce plenty of results giving contradicting advice. Interestingly, recent studies say that if you completely abstain from drinking, you are at an increased risk of getting dementia. At the other end of the scale, if you regularly consume more than two units per day of alcohol, you are also at an increased risk. It’s now recommended that somewhere between zero and fourteen units per week is the sweet spot for most adults.
Final Words
While there now is adequate research about ARBD, there are still limitations in recognizing the disease. Obstacles to proper diagnosis exist due to the similar presentation to other conditions and diseases affecting the brain. If you or a loved one are experiencing problems with cognitive function and have a history of heavy alcohol use, you should consult your health provider as soon as possible.
Disclaimer: This article is intended simply to provide information. It does not replace the medical advice of a physician. Please speak with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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