What are the symptoms of Hepatic Encephalopathy?
HE symptoms can range from mild to severe and can vary from person to person. Symptoms can develop rapidly or slowly over a period of time. Patients with HE can have both physical symptoms and reduced mental function.
Early symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy
- confusion
- forgetfulness
- personality or mood changes
- stale or sweet odour on the breath
- poor judgement
- poor concentration
- change in sleep patterns
- worsening of handwriting or small hand movement
Severe symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy
- unusual movements or shaking of hands or arms
- extreme anxiety
- seizures
- severe confusion
- sleepiness or fatigue
- severe personality changes
- jumbled and slurred speech
- slow movement.
Treatment for hepatic encephalopathy
HE is a treatable condition. The severity of the condition and potential triggers will determine the treatment given.
The first step is to identify and treat any factors that have caused the HE episode. Once this has been addressed, your doctor may prescribe medication to help prevent future episodes. The long term aim of HE treatment is to reduce the production and absorption of toxins such as ammonia.
There are two types of medication commonly used to reduce recurring episodes of HE:
Rifaximin
An antibiotic used to stop the growth of certain bacteria in the gut. It’s usually taken alongside other treatments such as lactulose.
Certain medications, such as those containing ammonium, and those broken down by the liver, such as sedatives and tranquilisers, should be avoided.
Further Information
Patient support
The British Liver Trust has worked with Norgine to produce a Patient Passport for people with advanced liver disease who either have the symptoms of HE or are worried they may develop them. The passport aims to help you keep track of important information related to your condition and includes a ‘patient alert card’ that you can keep in your wallet so that Healthcare Professionals are aware of your condition and do not think it is caused by other factors.
You can download the passport here or contact the office for a paper copy including the alert card.
Time to DeLiver Report
Time to DeLiver report on HE contains ten calls to action to improve the identification, treatment and management of hepatic encephalopathy;
Evidence shows that better management of Hepatic Encephalopathy (HE) leads to fewer hospital re-admissions, shorter hospital stays, improved patient experience and savings for the NHS.
Download it here.
Please visit the support section of our website for information on Support groups in your area.