Which of the following is a primary cause of confusion and memory loss often seen in chronic heavy drinkers?

• A. Excessive dopamine production in the brain
• B. Thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency leading to Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
• C. High levels of serotonin due to alcohol metabolism
• D. Increased immune system activity preventing neuronal damage

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that chronic heavy drinking can lead to neurological problems, including confusion and memory loss.
2. Recognize that one key factor in these symptoms is a deficiency in a specific vitamin essential for brain function, which is often depleted in heavy drinkers.
3. Identify that thiamine (vitamin B1) deficiency is linked to a neurological disorder called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which causes confusion and memory issues.
4. Note that this syndrome results from the brain's inability to properly metabolize glucose due to lack of thiamine, leading to neuronal damage.
5. Conclude that among the options, thiamine deficiency causing Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is the primary cause of the confusion and memory loss seen in chronic heavy drinkers.