• Permanent loss of memory
• Permanent loss of cognitive skills
• Injury caused by falls
• Difficulty with personal or social interaction
• Alcohol withdrawal state
• Permanent alcoholic neuropathy
• Shortened life span

Wernicke's encephalopathy may be precipitated in at-risk people by carbohydrate loading or glucose infusion. Supplementation with thiamine must precede glucose infusion to prevent this.

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Call your health care provider if symptoms suggesting Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome occur, or if the condition has been diagnosed and symptoms worsen or reappear.

Also call if new symptoms develop, particularly symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Alcohol withdrawal can be fatal, so call the local emergency number (such as 911) or go to the emergency room if any severe symptoms occur.

Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal include:

Delirium or confusion

• Agitation
• Jumpiness or nervousness
• Insomnia
• Hallucinations
• Palpitations
• Heart rate that is faster than normal without an observable cause, such as:
  • Increased activity
  • Pale skin
  • Profuse sweating
  • Muscle tremors
  • Seizures
  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Nausea/vomiting