Diseases
hepatic encephalopathy
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Hepatic encephalopathy is an often-temporary neurological (nervous system) disorder due to chronic, severe liver disease. A diseased liver struggles to filter toxins (substances created from the breakdown of food, alcohol, medications and even muscle) from the bloodstream.
Symptoms
- anxiety or irritability.
- cognitive impairment (confused thinking or judgment).
- difficulty concentrating or short attention span.
- flapping hand motion (asterixis).
- muscle twitches (myoclonus).
Causes
- alcohol use.
- certain drugs that affect the nervous system, such as sleeping pills and antidepressants.
- dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Risk factors
- alcohol use.
- dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Diagnosis
- magnetic resonance imaging (mri)
- computed tomography (ct)
- electroencephalogram (eeg)
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is hepatic encephalopathy?
Hepatic encephalopathy is an often-temporary neurological (nervous system) disorder due to chronic, severe liver disease. A diseased liver struggles to filter toxins (substances created from the breakdown of food, alcohol, medications and even muscle) from the bloodstream.
What are the symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy?
anxiety or irritability., cognitive impairment (confused thinking or judgment)., difficulty concentrating or short attention span., flapping hand motion (asterixis)., muscle twitches (myoclonus).
What causes hepatic encephalopathy?
alcohol use.; certain drugs that affect the nervous system, such as sleeping pills and antidepressants.; dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.
Which medicines are used for hepatic encephalopathy?
lactulose, neomycin, rifaximin
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