Hepatic Encephalopathy

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a neurological disorder that affects the brain as a result of liver failure or damage. It is characterized by an array of neurological symptoms, including confusion, difficulty concentrating, cognitive impairment, changes in sleep patterns, speech impairment, and changes in behavior. HE is caused by an accumulation of toxins in the body, usually due to liver failure or damage. When the liver fails to filter out toxins from the blood, they build up and can travel to the brain, resulting in neurological symptoms. In some cases, the accumulation of toxins can also cause abnormal levels of substances such as ammonia, which can lead to the development of HE. HE can be divided into two types: acute and chronic. Acute HE is usually caused by a sudden buildup of toxins in the body, such as after a period of alcohol abuse or a sudden infection. Chronic HE is caused by a long-term accumulation of toxins and is usually the result of liver cirrhosis or long-term alcohol abuse. Risk factors for HE include a history of alcohol abuse, cirrhosis, hepatitis, and other liver diseases.