Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complex disease.
The first step in managing HE is to get informed.
A complication of chronic, severe liver disease, hepatic encephalopathy results from a build-up of toxins in the blood. When these toxins reach the brain, reduced cognitive function and debilitating symptoms can occur.
Up to 4 out of 5 people living with cirrhosis may eventually develop some form of HE. The disease is oftentimes misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late and can be associated with increased mortality rates. It’s important to recognize the signs and promptly talk with your healthcare provider (HCP). With support and guidance from your care team, you can find the best way to manage your HE.
LEARN ABOUT HE
adults in the U.S have liver health issues ranging from minor to severe
adults living in the U.S are living with diagnosed liver disease
up to
0 %of those with cirrhosis, a severe form of chronic liver disease, may develop some form of he
adults in the U.S have liver health issues ranging from minor to severe
adults living in the U.S are living with diagnosed liver disease
up to
0 %of those with cirrhosis, a severe form of chronic liver disease, may develop some form of he
Track Your Symptoms And Talk To Your Doctor
If you or your loved one have chronic liver disease or are experiencing symptoms of HE, it may be time to visit a healthcare professional. Carefully tracking symptoms can help you and your HCP recognize if they are worsening.
Take action today.
- Complete this tracker to evaluate some of your or your loved one's HE symptoms.
- Then click the "Get My Printout" button below.
- Lastly, share the completed tracker with your HCP to help them better understand what has been happening at home and provide you with disease management options.
Select all the symptoms* that you (or your loved one) are experiencing.
*This list does not represent all possible HE symptoms. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any symptoms you may be experiencing that may or may not be associated with HE.
How Do I Talk to my Doctor about HE
Talk to your doctor about these recent symptoms to help track whether your HE is worsening, or if you need to make changes to your management plan.
Learning about HE is the first step towards managing it.
Discuss these questions with your doctor to understand more about your condition.
- Is there more than one disease or condition that could be causing my symptoms?
- What can I do to help make sure I'm taking my medicine correctly?
- Do I need a follow-up visit; if so, when?
- How may having HE affect my lifestyle (e.g., diet, drinking alcohol, work, driving)?
- What signs of complications should I look out for?
- How do I know when it's time to call a doctor or nurse?
Caregivers and Families
Caring for someone with a chronic condition, like HE, can be difficult and feel like a full-time job. Ensure you are getting the support you need.
Read More about caregiving resources for HE patientsAdditional Resources
Looking for additional resources? Access helpful tools and learn more about advocacy or support groups for people affected by HE.
Learn More about HE educational resourcesHED.0048.USA.24V2.0