Encephalopathy
Encephalopathy is the medical term used to refer to any diffuse disease of the human brain. This condition alters brain function or structure and can be caused by metabolic or mitochondrial dysfunction, brain tumor, an infectious agent such as bacteria, prion, or virus, and chronic progressive trauma. The state can also be traced to exposure to toxic elements such as solvents, radiation, drugs, paints, etc.
People who have AFLD or NAFLD can manifest encephalopathy because of the altered mental state they find themselves in. For example, people with AFLD and NAFLD can manifest impaired memory and cognitive abilities, inability to focus and concentrate, general malaise and lethargy, and subtle personality changes. In addition, depending on the severity of the condition, people may suffer from muscle atrophy, nystagmus, seizures, and the loss of the ability to speak and swallow. Doctors recommend people who experience such symptoms undergo a battery of tests, including spinal fluid examination, bloodwork, electroencephalograms, imaging, and other diagnostic procedures.
Doctors recommend exploring the underlying reasons for encephalopathy before recommending treatment options. However, if the condition has been left unchecked and has caused permanent structural damage, it can be irreversible and fatal in some cases.
