Alcohol and stuff
 

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....:grouphug:

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....:grouphug:

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,

There ARE people who improve, there are Members over the years who have disappeared - who is to say they have not improved so much they no longer need the support offered by the Members here.

I stopped Cold in 1990, not addicted, I drank A LOT with no physical effects every day for years. So I had no cravings, it was environment, circumstance and especially mental illness. It was the right thing to do, I hope you see it is the right thing for your health.

Who is to say next year a new treatment doesn't appear for Neurological Damage?

You have the right attitude to beat everything Life throws at you, keep strong.

Dave.

Bobby, congratulations on deciding to stop drinking.

I did the same (I was psychologically, not physically addicted) a few years ago and in my experience it does get easier with time. I feel much better now and I hope that you will as well.

I had mild neuropathy in my hands which went away after a few months. If yours doesn't then a chat with your doctor would be a good idea.

All the best.

Hold up a second, you can't beat yourself up too much over this....day 12 you are trying, Kudos...you had your reasons to start; It's what you are doing now.
Remember when there was a generation who ran around in the sun w/o sunscreen and SOME have skin cancer....and who knows, maybe alcohol induced nerve damage caused your damage but you knowledge is very much appreciated your experience is welcomed here....:grouphug:

I certainly appreciate the replies. One thing for certain is that I cannot change what has happened, however I can change with the choice to drink or not. I believe I'm going to look into some methods/tools to help stay sober. Day 14.