Treatment for Hepatic Encephalopathy

Treatments for Hepatic Encephalopathy may range from a change in diet, prescribed medication and in a severe case of Hepatic Encephalopathy; patients may need dialysis or even transplant surgery.

Diet - For patients suffering from Hepatic Encephalopathy, a diet rich in animal and plant protein sources maybe considered a hazard. This is because consumption of a high protein diet requires extra processing work from an already impaired liver and kidney. Moreover, a high protein diet may increase ammonia levels in the blood. Contrary to the notion that patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy patients should avoid all proteins, new research suggests that individuals suffering from this condition may also be susceptible to malnutrition. Therefore, talk to your doctor about a balanced diet and the adequate amount of proteins you need to consume.
Individuals suffering from Hepatic Encephalopathy may require antibiotic help for gastrointestinal problems such as irregular bowel movements and constipation. Patients suffering from constipation may notice higher than usual levels of ammonia and may require enemas or stool softeners in the form of Lactulose and Lactitol.
Your doctor may suggest antibiotics to control ammonia levels. To promote healthy bacteria, many doctors suggest including probiotics in your diet through natural means and supplements.
In acute Hepatic Encephalopathy, your doctor may recommend dialysis to filter toxins from the body via an external machine. Liver transplant is another option necessary in patients suffering from a severe case of Hepatic Encephalopathy.
To avoid anoxia (obstruction of oxygen to the brain), your doctor may also prescribe an oxygen machine to supplement breathing.

Prognosis

Living