Description

Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE): A Serious Neurological Complication of Liver Disease Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) is a reversible but potentially life-threatening condition caused by liver dysfunction. It occurs when the liver fails to detoxify ammonia and other neurotoxins, leading to their accumulation in the brain. HE is common in advanced liver disease, cirrhosis, and acute liver failure, affecting cognitive function, behavior, and motor skills. If left untreated, HE can progress to coma and death. Causes & Risk Factors of HE 🔹 Cirrhosis & Portal Hypertension: Impaired liver function leads to toxin buildup. 🔹 Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Increases nitrogen load and ammonia production. 🔹 Infections & Sepsis: Common triggers for HE episodes. 🔹 Electrolyte Imbalance & Dehydration: Worsens brain dysfunction. 🔹 Excess Protein Intake in Advanced Liver Disease: Can elevate ammonia levels. 🔹 Constipation & Kidney Dysfunction: Slows toxin excretion, increasing HE risk. Signs & Symptoms of Hepatic Encephalopathy ⚠️ Stage 1: Mild confusion, sleep disturbances, subtle personality changes. ⚠️ Stage 2: Lethargy, tremors, slurred speech, asterixis (flapping hand tremor). ⚠️ Stage 3: Marked disorientation, bizarre behavior, muscle rigidity. ⚠️ Stage 4: Coma, unresponsiveness, high risk of mortality. Diagnosis of HE ✅ Ammonia Levels: Elevated in HE but not always diagnostic. ✅ Critical Flicker Frequency (CFF) Testing: Detects Minimal HE (MHE) before symptoms appear. ✅ Neuropsychological Tests: Assess cognitive impairment. ✅ EEG (Electroencephalography): Shows brain wave abnormalities. Treatment & Management of HE 🔹 Lactulose: First-line therapy; reduces ammonia absorption in the gut. 🔹 Rifaximin: An antibiotic that alters gut bacteria, reducing ammonia production. 🔹 Probiotics & Zinc Supplementation: Improve gut health and ammonia metabolism. 🔹 Managing Triggers: Control infections, correct electrolyte imbalances, and prevent GI bleeding. 🔹 Protein Adjustment: Balanced intake to avoid malnutrition without worsening HE. 🔹 Liver Transplant: Definitive cure for recurrent or severe HE. Why Early Detection & Treatment Matters? 📌 Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy (MHE) affects 30-80% of cirrhosis patients, impairing concentration, reflexes, and driving ability—increasing accident risk. Regular screening & early intervention can prevent severe HE and improve quality of life! 💡 If you or a loved one have cirrhosis, watch for early signs of HE and consult a hepatologist today! #HepaticEncephalopathy #LiverHealth #Cirrhosis #BrainFog #HEAwareness #EndStageLiverDisease #BestHepatologistMumbai #BestHepatologistIndia #BestHepatologistMaharashtra #BestHepatologistDubai #BestHepatologistGoa #BestHepatologistIndore #BestHepatologistAndheri #BestHepatologistBandra #BestHepatologistLokhandwala #BestHepatologistThane #BestHepatologistBorivali #DrChetanKalal

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