Alcohol : Hi, I'm just wondering with... - Encephalitis Society

Encephalitis Society

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Alcohol

Elle2090 profile image
15 Replies

Hi,

I'm just wondering with Encephalitis whether you're able to drink alcohol, responsibly, post recovery? It probable isn't recommended/encouraged but I'm curious cause while I do miss having a glass of red wine, and my doc said I'm allowed to have one glass, I'm honestly too scared to.

I'm curious to know if anyone else here drinks with this condition or not.

Thanks fam!

Elle90

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Elle2090 profile image
Elle2090
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15 Replies
alpappy profile image
alpappy

I have almost no tolerance for alcohol now but a beer now and then is ok ....it's a matter of trying a bit and see how you feel spirits are out for me Alan

Lavender9 profile image
Lavender9

I used to drink most days but have cut this back now. I do have a few drinks now without too much repercussion. However maybe a little more achy and tired the next day so I keep it to a minimum 1-2 glasses every now and then for a special occasion.

I think as the other reply just try one small glass and see how you go to start.

Like everything with this condition everyone is different !

Cheers ! Keep well

Trisuitmaker profile image
Trisuitmaker

You have to realise Alcohol will kill brain cells. one must way up how much benefit in a glass. Or before too many glasses set you back. There are lots of Alcohol free wines out there try these first.

Jensibel profile image
Jensibel

Yes, if you're off meds, you can now have alcohol again. For me, when I was able to drink again, I found that I didn't have to same tolerance levels as pre-E. I was a real light weight!! One glass of wine and I'd be like a giggly teenager again. 🤣

alpappy profile image
alpappy

Should be in moderation but depends what meds you are on I am med free but cannot drink much I get light headed one more than one drink

salamander160 profile image
salamander160

Hi, sorry for being late here but I have the odd drink, but have never drunk spirits, and keep the alcohol limit very low around 5 percent, not high but it really isn't worth the risk.

salamander160 profile image
salamander160 in reply to salamander160

moderation, depending on how long ago your illness was, even if you are off meds, just be very careful!

I’m still on meds, but my consultant said a couple of drinks are fine but not to go crazy.. think it definitely could lead to bad decisions I’ve tried beer, prosecco and cocktails (just to get a good measure!) but would also recommend trying non alcoholic beer and Seedlip if you like gin- I’ve heard non alcoholic wine is gross, but that might have improved! Apparently if you drink too much it could cause a seizure during or in the hangover phase- not great! I’d just double check with your GP/consultant, although mine gave different advice!

Gandalf2 profile image
Gandalf2

After drinking alcohol you may find yourself waking up on drips etc. after a seizure - if you survive. (As happened to me). Or you may drink wine etc. and get by OK. Now I won't allow alcohol in the house, it's not worth the risk.My Enceph medicines and pain relief for spinal fractures sustained during last seizure recommend NO ALCOHOL. I'm now happy to abide by that and enjoy my remaining brain cells in their standard state. Anyhow good luck with your recovery.

Elle2090 profile image
Elle2090

Thanks guys for your comments! 🙂

I have tried non-alcoholic wine and its pretty average. I've also tried Seedlip which is pretty good for a fake Gin. I have had very tiny sips of alcoholic Gin but no more. I've avoided drinking alcohol from my last episode up til now and to be honest, it's been a pretty good lifestyle change, not by choice, but the benefits definately outweigh the negatives.

Elle

Paula-38 profile image
Paula-38

Yes, I am able to drink alcohol, but I hardly ever drank/drink anyhow , bearing in mind that I had Encephalitis all my life, the only times were at a wedding, christening or some other special occasion, similar to the average person might treat themselves to 1 glass of sherry, no more than 2 ever, and I have been fine.

alpappy profile image
alpappy

Its fine in moderation one glass ...no problem

Wygella profile image
Wygella

Definitely late to this discussion but anyway. When I was first recovering I couldn’t stand the taste of alcohol. Nearly three years on and no meds so I’ve been told by doctor one glass of wine is fine. I have a small glass every night which helps digestion but always have a glass of water as well. Still can’t face any more or anything else but I do enjoy that glass!

Remos profile image
Remos in reply to Wygella

Hi Wygella,

I agree with your digestion comment. Just wondered if you’ve tried Gaviscon 🤣.

Only joking.

Remos

Wygella profile image
Wygella in reply to Remos

😂😂. Rennies for me!!

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