Korsakov's Syndrome

The Wernicke-Korsakov syndrome is a brain disorder caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1).  This is often due to prolonged heavy drinking, but can also be a consequence of severe malnutrition, starvation or excessive and prolonged vomiting.

The primary stage, known as Wernicke’s Encephalopathy, is characterised by the following symptoms:

  • Confusion about time and place
  • Drowsiness
  • Poor balance
  • Double vision
  • Abnormal eye movements or paralysis of eye muscles

Not all of these symptoms may be present, leaving the condition to go unrecognised, which can have lethal consequences.  At this stage the sufferer may be treated by giving vitamin B1. 

If untreated, the condition may proceed to the secondary stage, known as Korakov’s Psychosis.  This is characterised by the following symptoms:

  • Loss of memory, particularly short term memory
  • Loss of spontaneity and initiative
  • Presenting inaccurate accounts of recent events
  • These symptoms may be permanent.

Treatment is available at: