What is metabolic encephalopathy?
Metabolic encephalopathy is a problem in the brain. It is caused by a chemical imbalance in the blood. The imbalance is caused by an illness or organs that are not working as well as they should. It is not caused by a head injury. When the imbalance affects the brain, it can lead to personality changes. It can also make it harder to think clearly and remember things.
The problems may only last a short time if you get treatment right away. But this depends on the cause. If the imbalance has been building up because you've been sick for a long time, the mental changes may be more severe. They may also last longer.
What are the symptoms of metabolic encephalopathy?
Symptoms may include:
- Confusion.
- Problems with thinking and remembering.
- Being grouchy and depressed.
- Feeling drowsy.
- Not being able to sleep.
- Passing out (fainting) now and then.
How is metabolic encephalopathy treated?
The doctor will try to find the illness that's causing the problem. The doctor may ask questions about your past health.
The doctor will also do tests to find what is causing the chemical imbalance and to see how severe it is.
The doctor may treat the organ system that's causing the problem. For example, if it's a kidney problem, you may have treatment to help your kidneys work better. If you have an infection, you may need antibiotics. If the doctor can't treat the cause of the problem, the doctor will treat the symptoms.
The doctor will carefully watch your blood chemicals to make sure that your treatment is being done safely.
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