How Alcohol Dependency Affects the Nervous System

From the first drink, alcohol begins to affect the body’s central nervous system. Neurological changes begin to take place immediately, worsening as alcohol dependency progresses. Chemical imbalances occur within the brain first, eventually becoming apparent in a host of cognitive problems, emotional fluctuations and bodily symptoms.

Alcohol Dependency and Neurotransmitters

When individuals have been alcohol dependent for years, vital brain chemicals—known as neurotransmitters—become affected. Neurotransmitter levels change, creating chemical imbalances to take place within the brain. Consequently, alcohol dependent individuals experience the effects of a chemical imbalance—undergoing heightened levels of fear, irritability, depression, low self esteem and exhaustion. As the cycle of alcohol dependency persists, these neurological consequences become further evident, as the body now depends on alcohol to maintain its status quo. Eventually, this can lead to physical symptoms such as chronic hangovers and “the shakes” (delirium tremens) when the body is deprived of alcohol.

Effects of Alcohol Dependency on the Brain

Alcohol dependency wreaks havoc on the temporal lobes, causing a host of psychological, emotional and cognitive problems to occur. Many alcohol dependent individuals experience serious mood disorders, sensory problems, altered perception, learning disabilities and memory issues for this reason. In fact, the brain can undergo a condition known as “cortical atrophy,” reducing spatial relation and problem-solving capabilities as the brain’s cerebral cortex shrinks to a smaller size. This can affect intelligence, mental processing speed, and even a sense of higher consciousness. Over time, alcohol dependency also impedes blood flow to the brain, affecting planning ability and behavior modulation in the frontal lobe, making it harder to accomplish goals and deal with relationships.

Alcohol Dependency and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

Perhaps the most distressing neurological effect of alcohol dependency is Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. A serious memory disorder, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome stems from prolonged alcohol dependency due to shifts in thiamine levels within the body. Ultimately, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome can lead to mental clouding, lowered cognition, irritability and serious alterations in personality.

If alcohol dependency persists after Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome has been diagnosed, retrograde amnesia can occur, due to the effects on the brain’s cerebellum. As a result, the body begins to show symptoms as well, and alcohol dependent individuals will encounter nerve problems in the feet and legs, causing an unsteady gait and difficulty walking. However, individuals who receive prompt and effective treatment for alcohol dependency can correct these nutritional deficiencies with the help of a professional nutritionist, reversing many of the physical and mental problems associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.