Alcohol Related Cognitive Impairments: an Overview for Clinical Practitioners

The harmful effects of chronic alcohol use have become increasingly evident in recent years. Studies have linked chronic alcohol use to an array of pathology affecting all organ systems, especially the central nervous system. The neurocognitive effects of alcohol may become irreversible with the persistent consumption. Repeated offensives can ultimately cause neurotransmitter dysregulation and direct and indirect neurotoxicity, subsequently resulting in various clinical syndromes. This article reviews literature relevant to cognitiveimpairments and treatment options associated with alcohol use for practitioners so that they may provide appropriate treatment and educate patients and their families.