What are the symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome?
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome can cause a wide range of symptoms. One symptom in people with severe disease is confabulation, where they invent information to cover memory loss. People with the syndrome may also be confused or disoriented. The confusion makes it difficult for them to realize anything is wrong and seek treatment. Some common signs of Wernicke encephalopathy may include: Balance problems or loss of coordination. Confabulation. Confusion (delirium). Difficulty walking (unsteady gait). Drowsiness. Extreme loss of body heat (hypothermia). Heart issues, including rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) or low blood pressure (hypotension). Lack of muscle coordination (ataxia). Eye issues are also common, including: Abnormal eye movement (nystagmus). Double vision. Drooping eyelid (ptosis). Eye muscle paralysis or weakness (ophthalmoplegia). Left untreated, Wernicke encephalopathy can lead to Korsakoff syndrome, a chronic memory disorder. Symptoms include: Amnesia or inability to form new memories. Behavioral changes, such as agitation or anger. Confabulation. Delirium and disorientation. Fatigue or lethargy. Hallucinations, especially in those withdrawing from alcohol. Lack of focus or attention. Unsteady gait. Some symptoms may not improve, even with treatment. In severe cases, people may experience loss of consciousness (coma). If you or a loved one has lost consciousness or has symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, call your healthcare provider or 911 immediately.
