Alcohol Blackouts, Memory Loss, Brain Effects

This podcast details alcohol blackouts, a form of amnesia or memory loss where individuals are conscious but cannot form long-term memories due to a rapid rise in blood alcohol content. It explores causes like binge drinking, empty stomach, and drug interactions, noting women may be at greater risk. The brain's memory formation is disrupted, particularly in the hippocampus and frontal lobes, affecting transfer from short-term to long-term memory. Long-term heavy alcohol use can lead to brain damage, cognitive impairment, dementia (like Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome due to vitamin B1 deficiency), and increased risky behavior. Prevention involves pacing drinks, eating, and hydration, while treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and associated memory problems includes medical support and abstinence.