About 46% of chronic alcohol users will eventually develop this condition.
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Causes
The exact cause of alcoholic neuropathy is unclear.
Poor nutrition is often associated with heavy alcohol use.
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How long does it take to develop alcoholic neuropathy?
However, they usually worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses.
Symptoms that occur in the arms and legs typically affect both sides.
How common is alcoholic neuropathy?
Alcoholic neuropathy affects people who consume excessive amounts of alcohol over a long period of time.
About 46% of all chronic alcohol users may eventually develop this condition.
Diagnosis
Since symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy can vary greatly, diagnosis may take time.
The severity and stage of the disease is associated with a higher incidence of neuropathy.
Treatment
Alcoholic neuropathy can’t be reversed, even if you stop drinking.
Treatment may include:
Likely a combination of treatments will be needed.
Other treatment options to manage alcoholic neuropathy involve symptom management and preventing further injuries.
This condition is typically not life-threatening, but the nerve damage from alcoholic neuropathy is usually permanent.
It will worsen with continued alcohol use.
Summary
Alcoholic neuropathy damages the nerves due to prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption.
This damage prevents the nerves from communicating information from one body area to another.
Most symptoms generally start as mild.
However, they usually worsen over time as the neuropathy progresses.
Treatment options include steps to quit alcohol use and managing symptoms of the disease.
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National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Peripheral neuropathy.
Pasha MB, Ather MM, Tanveer MA, et al.Frequency of peripheral neuropathy in chronic liver disease.Med Forum.
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