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What Are Harmful Effects of Alcohol on Brain? Check Out Expert's Perspective

Harsh

What Are Harmful Effects of Alcohol on Brain? Check Out Expert's Perspective

The cerebellum, also known as our "chota dimaag" (small brain) in Hindi, is a major contributor to our ability to walk steadily and move smoothly. It regulates our ability to walk, talk, balance, and even the little motions of our fingers.

However, consuming alcohol too much can make things worse for your brain. Alcoholism for an extended period of time can harm the cerebellum and cause cerebellar ataxia.

What is Cerebellar Ataxia?

One minor symptom of ataxia is a wobbly sensation. Muscle coordination is reduced with ataxia, making it difficult to maintain balance or perform exact motions.

Cerebellar ataxia is ataxia caused by damage to the cerebellum. This damage can cause symptoms like:

  • Difficulty walking or standing in a straight line
  • Slurred speech
  • Tremors
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty with coordinated movements, like picking up objects

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Brain?

Alcohol acts as a depressant, which slows down brain cell communication. This relates to the cerebellum, whose accurate communication is necessary to accurately coordinate movement. Extended alcohol consumption may damage the cerebellum, as Dr. Priyanka Sehrawat (MD Medicine, DM Neurology at AIIMS Delhi) highlights in her Instagram video. This damage can lead to problems with speech, balance, and even driving skills.

Other Causes of Cerebellar Ataxia

Cerebellar ataxia can be brought on by a number of reasons, however persistent alcohol abuse is a key contributing factor. These include:

  • Uncontrolled hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Certain viral infections
  • Rare neurodegenerative disorders

The Takeaway

It's important that you get medical help if you suspect cerebellar ataxia. What you can do is as follows:

  • The first thing to do is to give up alcohol. This is especially important if you think alcohol may be the cause.
  • Check the levels of vitamin B12 and thyroid function, Ataxia may potentially be exacerbated by these impairments.
  • Consulting a neurologist because can help identify the cause of your ataxia and recommend the best course of treatment.

Remember that early diagnosis and therapy may help you manage your cerebellar ataxia symptoms and improve your quality of life.