Serious Indicators Of Wernicke's Encephalopathy

Wernicke's encephalopathy is one of two conditions, the other being Korsakoff syndrome, that often occur together. The overarching condition is called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, and researchers believe they may be different stages of one disease. The conditions occur when individuals don't get enough thiamine, otherwise known as vitamin B1. This vitamin is necessary for the brain to convert sugar into usable energy. If the nervous system and brain aren't getting the amount of energy they need, they won't function well. Wernicke's encephalopathy tends to occur suddenly and requires immediate treatment. When treatment doesn't occur in a timely manner, the illness can progress to Korsakoff syndrome, which occurs more slowly and causes ongoing brain damage.

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Ataxia

Ataxia is a condition that occurs when the nervous system's functioning degenerates. Individuals with ataxia may look like they're drunk, as they tend to stumble, fall, lack coordination, and slur their words. These symptoms are caused by degeneration of the cerebellum, which coordinates a person's movements. There are a number of diseases under the ataxia umbrella that present with the condition alone, but the onset of the condition can also indicate an underlying problem. With Wernicke's encephalopathy, a severe thiamine deficiency has led the brain's functions to degenerate because there's not enough energy. Ataxia patients often have wide stances and take short steps because of their trouble balancing. They may need others to help them stand up and move around. Patients may also experience general weakness in the legs and arms. Even if the cause isn't Wernicke's encephalopathy, the sudden onset of these symptoms is a serious sign something is neurologically wrong. If individuals experience these symptoms without warning or explanation, they should seek emergency medical treatment.

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