Understanding Alcoholism: Can It Be Reversed?
In 2016, a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience surprised many neurochemistry and mental health researchers. Scientists from the Scripps Research Institute observed a small group of neurons in the amygdala region of the brains of laboratory rodents that had been induced to compulsively drink liquor. As the rats became chemically dependent, the neurons formed a strong circuit that reinforced the addiction. Then they were injected with a protein compound that chemically inactivated the neurons, and the rats stopped drinking completely. The researchers described the findings as a full reversal of alcoholism on a neurochemical level, which they didn’t think was possible. We’ll mention this study later as we explain how alcoholism can be reversed on various levels.
Sobriety as a Cognitive Reversal of Alcoholism
If we refer to alcoholism and sobriety as polar opposites, it’s safe to say alcohol use disorder (AUD) is reversible on a behavioral level. Most individuals who go through addiction recovery in Encinitas, CA, tacitly accept this view even if they don’t discuss it in detail.
If you learn to attain and maintain sobriety, you’ll be reversing past behaviors that clash against sobriety. When we talk about the learning aspect of sobriety, we’re referring to a cognitive task, thus making a sober life the practical reversal of living as an alcoholic.
Reversal of AUD Cardiomyopathy
AUD damages the heart muscle and weakens cardiac function. The symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, and swelling in the lower extremities. Cardiomyopathy involves enlargement of the heart and high blood pressure. When it’s severe, it can cause heart failure.
Many clinical research studies show that cutting back on drinking or becoming a teetotaler substantially reduces the severity of AUD cardiomyopathy. This is because the heart is an organ that can adapt to many conditions. Through a combination of recovery, medication, nutrition, and exercise, AUD cardiomyopathy can be reversed to a great extent.
Partial Reversal of AUD Liver Damage
If you ever suffer hepatitis from AUD, that’s a sign you need to immediately begin recovery. The liver turns into a workhorse when you get drunk. It actively filters toxins, keeps cholesterol levels in check, and contributes to immune system function.
Of the various liver conditions caused by AUD, fatty liver disease is fully reversible, and the same can be said about mild to moderate hepatitis. A fatty liver can fully heal after a few weeks, and hepatitis can be treated with medications. AUD cirrhosis, the permanent scarring of the liver, isn’t reversible and can be fatal.
Partial Reversal of AUD Brain Atrophy
In the alcoholic rats study mentioned before, the findings suggest AUD is neurochemically reversible, but a safe pharmaceutical compound for humans has yet to be developed. It should be noted that the rodents in the study had healthy brains before AUD was induced, and follow-up research indicates this was a crucial factor in their immediate recovery. Had the rats suffered from AUD brain atrophy, which is the loss of the synapses that connect neurons, the study findings wouldn’t have been as positive.
AUD cerebral atrophy can be significantly alleviated when you stop drinking. It takes a couple of months for most patients, but it’s not a full reversal. It’s for this reason that AUD is dangerous among teenagers and older alcoholics.
If you’re concerned about a loved one’s level of drinking but don’t know where to turn, a good place to start is with an interventionist. Encinitas residents can trust the expertise and experience of the compassionate team at Sober Lifestyle Coaching. Our interventions are guided by love and compassion for the addict to ensure he or she doesn’t feel attacked or judged. In addition, our interventions are well structured and appropriate for coaxing a willingness to change in your loved one who may resist accepting help such as treatment, detox, or rehab. As part of our comprehensive intervention services, we also offer the support of a dedicated Sober Companion to accompany your loved one on the journey to recovery, providing the care and guidance he or she needs in daily life. To learn more about how we can help you or someone you love, call us today.