The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing. If one of our articles is marked with a ‘reviewed for accuracy and expertise’ badge, it indicates that one or more members of our team of doctors and clinicians have reviewed the article further to ensure accuracy. This is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure FHE Health is trusted as a leader in mental health and addiction care. For those who’ve been diagnosed with the syndrome, the goal is improving symptoms and delaying disease progression.

• Even if it seems like wet brain or alcohol use disorder is insurmountable, there is always hope at the end of the tunnel.
• Doctors often struggle to diagnose wet brain as well since symptoms can resemble other conditions.
• Someone struggling with a wet brain may not be able to recognize their symptoms clearly or seek medical advice when they should.
• She has worked in inpatient settings as well as provided community nursing as a Nurse Practitioner.
• Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is treated through the replacement of thiamine and proper levels of nutrition and hydration.[3] In addition, cessation of alcohol is the only real treatment long term.

What Is Wet Brain Syndrome?

• Untreated, long-term alcoholism can result in a host of negative consequences, from social isolation and unemployment to fatal cirrhosis of the liver.
• At United Recovery Project, we understand the importance of a supportive environment in the recovery journey.
• Inpatient rehab is an intensive, residential treatment program that provides patients with 24/7 care and support in a safe and structured environment.
• And if alcohol upsets a person’s stomach, this could trigger vomiting or loss of appetite — two other ways of depleting the body’s thiamine reserves.

Wet brain is a slang term for a brain disorder called Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome (WKS). The disorder is a direct result of vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency which is seen in people who struggle with poor nutrition and alcohol use disorder. If you’re concerned about vitamin B1 depletion or know someone experiencing co-occurring wet brain symptoms as a result of drinking alcohol, it’s essential that you get professional help. Reach out today, before chronic conditions develop, and a health care or recovery expert will help guide you in next steps. So, what—exactly—is a « wet brain? » According to the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is really two different disorders.

The Importance of Thiamine

Even if it seems like wet brain or alcohol use disorder is insurmountable, there is always hope at the end of the tunnel. While we have been discussing the way that alcohol impact thiamine intake, there are other causes that may lead to a lower amount of Vitamin B12 in the body. Long periods of vomiting or bulimia may also lead to a Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Yes, Alcohol Makes You Ugly. Here’s Why.

Patients may experience some improvement with the initial treatment, but the remaining symptoms are likely permanent. Additionally, a patient experiencing symptoms must seek medical treatment immediately in order to catch it in time for it to be treatable. Due to the rapid pace of deterioration in WKS patients, time is critically important. In addition to these symptoms, patients with Korsakoff Psychosis often experience severe amnesia, dementia, and mood instability.

Recovery from Wet Brain: United Recovery Project

A brain scan may show evidence of wet brain, due to brain swelling from Wernicke encephalopathy; however, most doctors diagnose the condition by examining the list of symptoms. Treatment typically involves ingesting thiamine, either intravenously, intramuscularly, or orally, depending on how the person will best tolerate the vitamin. Although treatment will not change brain damage or memory loss that occurs from Korsakoff’s psychosis, it can prevent or delay mush brain any further progression of wet brain. Wet brain, formally known as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, is a type of brain damage that can occur after extended and repeated exposure to heavy drinking. The excessive consumption of alcohol can cause a deficiency of thiamine, or vitamin B1, which is an essential vitamin for the proper functioning of the brain and body. Alcoholism interferes with the consumption, absorption, and activation of thiamine in your system.

Treatment of Wernicke’s encephalopathy begins with increased intake of thiamine. Doctors will help patients identify a more well-rounded diet of vitamin B1. While wet brain isn’t curable, early detection can help treat symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. “Encephalopathy” refers to any disease that affects the structure or function of the brain.

Wet Brain – Facts and Symptoms