What is hepatic encephalopathy?
1 Answer
Hepatic encephalopathy is a condition that causes temporary worsening of brain functions in people with advanced liver diseases.
Explanation:
The altered level of consciousness is a result of liver failure. When the liver is damaged it can no longer remove toxins from the body. The toxic build up causes the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.
Symptoms include changes in mood and/or personality as well as problem in movement. The first stage is characterised by an inverted sleep-wake pattern. Lethargy and personality changes occur during the second stage. This is followed by worsened confusion in the third stage and a progression to coma by the fourth stage.
It is possible to reverse hepatic encephalopathy by treatment with drugs that reduce the levels of toxins.
