Alcoholism and Wet Brain Syndrome

If you've ever forgotten a birthday, repeated a story, or felt confused by a simple task, those moments might seem harmless. But for someone who drinks heavily, these lapses can be early signs of something more serious—wet brain syndrome, also known as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

This condition stems from a severe deficiency in thiamine (vitamin B1), often caused by long-term alcohol use. Without enough thiamine, your brain struggles to function, leading to lasting damage that affects memory, coordination and even personality.

A quick note: While wet brain syndrome is a commonly used term, it can carry stigma and misunderstanding. At Hazelden Betty Ford, we use the medical name, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, to emphasize that this condition is a serious, treatable brain disorder linked to chronic alcohol use.

What Causes Wet Brain Syndrome?

Your body needs thiamine to convert food into energy, especially in the brain, heart and nerves. But alcohol interferes with how your body absorbs and uses thiamine. People with alcohol use disorder often drink their calories instead of eating nutritious meals, which leads to vitamin deficiencies.

In some cases, alcohol inflames the stomach lining, making it harder to absorb nutrients. Over time, this can cause wet brain symptoms to appear and advance.

Wet Brain Symptoms: What to Watch For

This alcohol-related brain condition develops in two stages.

Stage 1: Wernicke's Encephalopathy

This is the acute phase of the syndrome. Symptoms may include

• Confusion and disorientation
• Tremors or unsteady walking (ataxia)
• Muscle weakness
• Delirium or agitation
• Visual or auditory hallucinations
• Rapid eye movements or drooping eyelids

Stage 2: Korsakoff's Psychosis

This is the chronic phase of the syndrome. Symptoms may include

• Severe memory loss
• Difficulty forming new memories
• Disorientation about time and place
• Trouble learning new tasks
• Confabulation (filling in memory gaps with made-up stories)
• Dementia-like behavior

Is Wet Brain Syndrome Treatable? Can the Condition Be Reversed?

Yes—if caught early, wet brain syndrome can be treated. The key is thiamine replacement therapy and complete abstinence from alcohol. Many people see improvements in memory and coordination within weeks.

But once the condition progresses, the damage may be permanent. That's why early intervention matters.

Learn more about how alcohol affects brain function and the potential for recovery. 

Who's Most at Risk?

Wet brain syndrome affects about 1–2% of the general population, but it's far more common among people with alcohol use disorder. Men between ages 30–70 are slightly more affected than women. Other risk factors for wet brain syndrome include

• Poor nutrition
• Eating disorders
• Chronic vomiting
• Gastric bypass surgery
• Long-term dialysis

How Long Can You Live with Wet Brain Syndrome?

If left untreated, wet brain syndrome can be fatal. Once someone reaches the second phase, life expectancy may be as short as six months.

That's why recognizing the signs and seeking help is so important. With early intervention and ongoing recovery support, many people can stabilize and improve their quality of life.

Explore the research around addiction as a brain disease.

Support that Meets You Where You Are

If you or someone you care about is showing signs of wet brain syndrome, don't wait to reach out for help. At Hazelden Betty Ford, we combine medical expertise, compassion and decades of experience to help people facing substance use disorders and alcohol-related brain conditions like Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.

Call us today to speak confidentially with a recovery expert. We'll help you find clarity, options and a healing path forward.