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Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is a combination of 2 conditions:  Korsakoff’s Syndrome and Wernicke’s Encephalopathy.

1.)  Korsakoff’s Syndrome

This is a condition that largely affects the Brain causing Dementia and memory problems.

Caused by a deficiency or lack of Vitamin B1 or Thiamine in the brain

This condition may be combined with Wernicke’s encephalopathy – also called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome

Symptoms

–  Inability to create memories  [Anterograde amnesia]
–  Inability to remember or recall memories  [Retrograde amnesia]
–  Invented memories
–  Lack of care
–  Tremors
–  Muscle twitching
–  Coma

Causes of Vitamin Deficiency

–  Severe malnutrition
–  Alcoholism
–  Eating disorders
–  Mercury poisoning
–  Severe morning sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum

Treatment

A.)  Often requires hospital care
.  IV Thiamine
.  IM Thiamine
.  Hydration
.  Nutrition

B.)  Prevention is essential and therefore avoidance of vitamin deficiency

2.)  Wernicke’s Encephalopathy

This is a condition that largely affects the brain causing confusion and changes to the eye movement

Lesions on several parts of the brain are reported

Often caused by lack of Vitamin B1 or Thiamine in the brain along with carbohydrate digestion

Symptoms:

A.) Main

–  Brain damage  [Encephalopathy]
–  Eye damage  [Ophthalmoplegia]
–  Loss of muscle coordination  [Ataxia]

B.) Other

–  Memory loss
–  Dementia
–  Confusion
–  Gait changers
–  Coma