Many people are unaware that cirrhosis, a severe type of chronic liver disease, can worsen and eventually affect how the brain functions. Dr. Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist, explained on Instagram on August 15 how issues with liver health could impact brain function.
The liver expert and gastroenterologist described overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE), a syndrome that can eventually affect your brain as a result of liver disease progression. This is how it affects how your brain works:
How might your brain be affected by overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE)?
Dr. Salhab emphasized in the post that liver disease can worsen over time and potentially affect brain function. The gastroenterologist clarified that OHE is a consequence of cirrhosis and arises when the liver is damaged and unable to adequately eliminate toxins from the bloodstream, which leads to the buildup of toxins and poor brain function.
“This results in a variety of mental and physical symptoms that can have a substantial impact on an individual’s well-being,” he stated. The following are some signs of an OHE episode:
- confusion
- disorientation
- severe personality changes
- changes in sleep patterns
- tremors, and more.
Although these symptoms might not initially appear to be related to a reduction in liver function, the gastroenterologist noted that this is why it is always advised to discuss all of your symptoms with your doctor.
Despite the complexity of the illness, Dr. Salhab emphasized that it is possible to control the risk of experiencing additional OHE episodes. “One of the most empowering things you can do is to understand your condition. Numerous patients and caregivers have expressed to me that they wish they knew what to look for, but they were unable to obtain the necessary information. Don’t wait to find out more if you or someone you care about is living with OHE.”
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
