Hepatic encephalopathy & bull; hello healthy

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Definition

What is hepatic encephalopathy?

Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition that refers to changes in the personality, psychological, and nervous system in people with liver failure. High levels of ammonia in the bloodstream and brain may be the cause.

Ammonia is produced by bacteria in the stomach and intestines. Normally, the liver breaks down ammonia to make it harmless. However, people with liver disease have more ammonia because their liver isn't functioning. Ammonia enters the blood, goes to the brain, and causes symptoms that interfere with brain function.

How common is hepatic encephalopathy?

Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition more commonly experienced by people with cirrhosis of the liver. Cirrhosis is not contagious and cannot be inherited from parent to child, but if left untreated it can lead to coma and death.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy?

The main symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy are:

• Confused and senile.
• Sleepy.
• Mood (mood)that is fickle.
• Weak, lethargic and powerless.

Other symptoms that may arise from hepatic encephalopathy are jaundice, difficulty speaking, trembling, and irritability. In addition, people with this condition may also have symptoms of liver disease which include fluid in the abdomen and swollen legs.

Some of the signs or symptoms may not be listed above. If you are worried about the symptoms, consult a doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

Contact your doctor if you or your family members and relatives have the symptoms above, especially for those who have previously had liver disease. This disease may develop rapidly and be very dangerous.

Every body acts differently from one another. Discuss with your doctor to find the best solution for your condition.

Cause

What causes hepatic encephalopathy?

Disorders that damage the liver and cause liver failure can result in hepatic encephalopathy. Some of these disorders are viral hepatitis (such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C), severe infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and Reye's syndrome.

Other causes of hepatic encephalopathy are the use of drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and drinking too much alcohol. People with cirrhosis can develop encephalopathy from sedatives and analgesics.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for hepatic encephalopathy?

Certain factors that may increase the risk of hepatic encephalopathy are:

• Dehydration.
• Eating too much protein.
• Bleeding from the intestines, stomach, or esophagus.
• Infection.
• Kidney disorders.
• Lack of oxygen.
• Drugs that suppress the central nervous system (eg barbiturates or benzodiazepine sedatives).

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for hepatic encephalopathy?

Hepatic encephalopathy may require emergency treatment requiring hospitalization. The goal of hepatic encephalopathy treatment is to find and treat causes, such as the use of certain drugs, bleeding in the digestive system, to metabolic problems. If the specific cause of hepatic encephalopathy is bleeding in the digestive system, then the patient should be treated as soon as possible.

A drug called lactulose acts as a laxative and helps empty the intestines, so bacteria can't make ammonia. Sometimes, an antibiotic called neomycin is also used. This drug kills the bacteria in the intestines so that the amount of ammonia is reduced.

What are the usual tests for hepatic encephalopathy?

The doctor will do a complete physical examination. The doctor may do blood tests and x-rays to rule out other problems because hepatic encephalopathy is similar to the symptoms of other diseases. These diseases include meningitis, low blood sugar levels, brain cancer, and blood clots in the brain.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be used to treat hepatic encephalopathy?

Some of the lifestyle changes and home remedies that may help treat hepatic encephalopathy include:

• Call your doctor if any family member with liver disease has habits, personality, or mental changes.
• Don't drink alcohol, especially if you have cirrhosis.
• Do not forget that the consumption of sleeping pills can cause abnormalities in people with liver disease.

Remember that hepatic encephalopathy may heal as well as before. However, the chance of death is high if you fall into a coma.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.