10 Serious Indicators Of Wernicke's Encephalopathy

6. Sudden Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)

While less commonly highlighted than the neurological symptoms, a sudden and unexplained drop in blood pressure (hypotension) can be a critical, underlying indicator of Wernicke's encephalopathy. This occurs because severe thiamine deficiency can impair the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary bodily functions like blood pressure and heart rate. If a patient presents with sudden weakness, dizziness, or fainting alongside other cognitive or movement issues, especially without obvious cardiac causes, Wernicke's should be considered. It's a vital sign of systemic dysfunction.