Wet brain

Wet Brain or Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a type of brain disorder caused by a lack of thiamine (vitamin B1). The condition is most commonly seen in people who struggle with alcohol abuse, but it can also occur in individuals with malnutrition or those who have had a gastric bypass surgery.

Causes

The primary cause of Wet Brain is a deficiency in thiamine. This deficiency can be caused by alcoholism, malnutrition, or a combination of both. Alcohol inhibits the body's ability to absorb thiamine, and heavy drinkers often have poor diets, further exacerbating the deficiency.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Wet Brain can be divided into two stages: the Wernicke's encephalopathy stage and the Korsakoff's psychosis stage.

In the Wernicke's encephalopathy stage, symptoms may include confusion, loss of muscle coordination, and vision changes such as rapid eye movement and double vision.

In the Korsakoff's psychosis stage, symptoms may include memory loss, hallucinations, and making up stories (confabulation).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Wet Brain is often based on the presence of symptoms and a history of alcohol abuse. Medical professionals may also use MRI or CT scan to detect changes in the brain.

Treatment

Treatment for Wet Brain involves replacing thiamine in the body, often through injections or oral supplements. In addition, treating the underlying cause, such as alcoholism or malnutrition, is crucial.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Wet Brain varies. If caught early and treated promptly, some symptoms can be reversed. However, in many cases, the damage to the brain is permanent.

See Also

• Alcoholism
• Thiamine
• Brain Disorders