Family, friends and past medical records should be consulted to obtain the most complete information possible on the person's history with alcohol. Typically, the period of significant drinking must be within three years of the onset of dementia. Concerns about an inherited susceptibility to WKS should be discussed with a genetic counselor. In cases of suspected non-alcohol related WKS, the physician may investigate anorexia nervosa, hypermesis gravidarum, severe malnutrition and other disorders or surgical procedures which impair intestinal absorption of thiamine. If caught early enough, WKS is a preventable, treatable disease.
Treatment consists of thiamine replacement therapy, sometimes along with other vitamins.
Dosages may vary and should be monitored closely by a physician. If alcoholic consumption stops and treatment is properly administered, individuals with early-stage WKS can expect a marked recovery and may be capable of learning simple, repetitive tasks. However, the person's confusion may take some time to subside and even incomplete recovery of memory can take up to a year. Family Issues Caring for a family member who has WKS or alcohol-related dementia presents multiple challenges for family caregivers. Lasting symptoms of dementia and other neurological problems are difficult conditions under even the best circumstances.