After an extended period of alcohol abuse or alcoholism, people can become susceptible to alcoholic neuropathy (otherwise known as primary axonal sensorimotor peripheral polyneuropathy). Alcoholic neuropathy is not technically a disease but a disorder that results in decreased nerve functioning. It is generally caused by damage from excessive drinking of alcohol over long periods. The main symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy generally show up as a feeling of numbness or loss of feeling in the feet and lower legs. This usually coincides with feeling of weakness in the legs and even a quivering or vibration of the leg muscles. In most cases of alcoholic neuropathy, the onset of such symptoms will take a long time and occur over many years of drinking. However, in some cases alcoholic neuropathy will occur rapidly and progress quickly. Serous cases of alcoholic neuropathy can cause complete numbness in the lower legs, and occasionally in the arms and hands. In some cases, alcoholic neuropathy makes it impossible to walk.

The Causes of Alcoholic Neuropathy

Alcohol is a primary contributor to this disease, but somewhat indirectly. Alcohol has a toxic effect on nerve tissue and if consumed over long periods, it causes serious damage to the nerves in our extremities. However, alcoholic neuropathy also comes about directly from nutritional deficiencies. Scientific reviews have shown that nutritional deficiencies (which are common in many alcoholics because of the toxic effects of alcohol and poor eating habits) may be the primary factor in the development of alcoholic neuropathy. The most directly attributable deficiencies are thiamine deficiencies, Vitamin C deficiencies and Vitamin B deficiencies. Alcoholics can have gastrointestinal problems that may inhibit absorption of nutrients, or they may simply not be consuming enough of these nutrients. Studies have yet to scientifically conclude if adequate nutrition can totally prevent this disorder.

What Are The Main Symptoms Of Alcoholic Neuropathy?

There are some standard symptoms of alcoholic Neuropathy to look for. Early symptoms include:

Numbness in the feet or lower legs (occasionally this may occur in the arms as well) Pain in the lower extremities A sensation of "pins and needles" in the feet or lower legs Muscle cramps or muscle aches, particularly in the calves or front of your lower legs Unusually weak muscles, particularly in the legs Problems with impotence A strange sensitivity to heat, particularly after exercise Difficulty beginning to urinate, or a difficulty controlling your urine (incontinence), or feeling that you cannot completely empty your bladder Difficulties with constipation or diarrhea Frequent nausea or vomiting

Symptoms tend to get progressively worse over time and medical assistance should be sought as soon as possible. Later stages of the disorder will include more severe symptoms, such as:

A difficulty swallowing Difficulty speaking (this will feel like a physical difficulty rather than a challenge finding words) Hoarseness of voice Severe muscle cramps, contractions or spasms Complete atrophy in muscles Complete inability to move your legs

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