Imaging Technology and Neurological Problems that Could Develop if One Continues to Drink

Margo had not been feeling well for the past few weeks. She decided to see her doctor because of her feeling stressed, tired, and unfocused at work and at home. She told the doctor that she has been feeling pressured at her job to complete a lot of work in a short amount of time. This has caused her to bring work home even though she needs to care for her two teenage sons. Margo reported that it started with drinking a few glasses of wine before bed to help her get to sleep. For the past two years, her alcohol consumption has increased with her stress levels. She now struggles with insomnia and feels overwhelmed. Her doctor ordered MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans of her brain and asked her to return the next week.
Margo returned to see her doctor a week later. During that appointment, the doctor showed her the brain scan and explained that she should begin to make some lifestyle changes. She was struck by the differences between her brain and a healthy one and promised to make some changes.
Brain scan showing alcoholic brain versus normal brain
Using the scenario above, explain what Margo saw in the MRI scan of her brain. Why is she likely suffering from problems with her thinking and focus? Make some predictions about what kinds of neurological problems she will develop if she continues to drink.