If suspecting alcohol as the culprit for neuropathy symptoms, should stopping alcohol ingestion cease progression? Sober day 11...not easy. Thanks.

Cease progression....I think so, but what about withdrawals...I know it's not easy...but I'm sure you are helping your nerve symptoms and wonder what are you doing for your sobriety....is this cold turkey? Someone helping you?? Sorry I haven't read your other posts....

I feel better after day 3. Physical symptoms are gone as far as nausea and feeling lightheaded. I'm wondering if the neuropathy symptoms are more pronounced now that alcohol is out of the equation, perhaps being there for the past few weeks, yet not really detected as much?

As far as sobriety, I'm reading some books and that's about it. I feel my desire to quit is easier based upon my physical neuropathic symptoms and wishing to be well and further stop any progression. I've been through several tests and blood work to rule out other etiologies...all to no avail, therefore leading me to what I feel is likely causative...alcohol intake.

Initially symptoms were confined to hands and arms, more so in the right with associated shoulder and subclavicular pain leading me towards Thoracic Outlet. This was discussed with respected Chiro and PT and thought to be a problem. But, when symptoms started in my feet and legs a few weeks ago, I started concerning myself with other causes. Perhaps I have both?? Who knows. Frustrating is the right word I'm looking for. I'm otherwise healthy without any medical problems in the past. I've been very active throughout my life and look the part of a healthy athlete per say.

When my nerve damage started spreading, I used to have a couple of 'drinks' in the evening. It 'helped' but symptoms where still there...so I (my opinion based on me, not a doctor etc), guess you will feel more nerve pain.
I come from an alcoholic family, both sides, so in the back of my mind I was always afraid of addiction; but I never had a problem; I can take it or leave it....I started Low dose Naltrexone for my nerves; and large doses are to help people to stop addiction so I never picked up a drink again.
Kudos to you for you efforts; don't beat yourself up IF you cheat here and there....

I am not sure about "ceasing", as the damage to nerves can be permanent, and the repair process is SLOW. But, one thing for sure is that by stopping the ingestion of alcohol is the best thing you can do for your body at this point.

Cold turkey is HARD, better to quit slowly if you can, attend some meetings if you feel so inclined, and try to be accountable to a sober friend.

I guess what I meant in simpler terms, from what I keep reading, is that stopping alcohol would stop further deterioration if it is indeed the causative factor. With that being said, I'm at the bottom of the barrel here. I've read through posts and threads looking for something to hang onto, but ultimately I feel I'm stuck with this. What a great feeling to know your selfish alcohol drinking behavior has destroyed your body. I take responsibility for that, as gut wrenching as it seems. Not drinking right now is all I have. I'm not opposed to meetings and will do what it takes. Thanks for the kind responses. Day 12.

Bobby,
My name is Fred. I quit drinking 48 years ago. I was a member of AA for a long time. I want to put in my 2 cents worth on your discussion.
I think you need to see a neurologist about your pain. In all the years that I was around alcoholism, I don't remember that type of pain associated with alcoholism. All of the group here may not care for this suggestion, but it is what I believe.
I was addicted and pain like that was not a part of it.
Best wishes --your life may depend on you making this work
Thanks
FREDH

I am going to put up this useful link:

http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/AA72/AA72.htm

It explains the differences between people and how genetic issues determine alcohol metabolism:

This one explains alcohol and glucose metabolism.

http://www.medicinenet.com/alcohol_a...tion/page4.htm

The changes in glucose metabolism therefore may hook into the PN issues. (in addition to alcohol toxicity etc.)

Janieg at our PN forum put this up today...
http://health.howstuffworks.com/well.../hangover4.htm

The aldehydes are the real culprits in causing sick feelings and pain involving the nerves, etc when alcohol is consumed.
Thiamine and benfotiamine (a synthetic thiamine) will help with the aldehyde problem...and this is why many hangover remedies contain Thiamine in some form (B1)