Hepatic encephalopathy is a brain disorder that develops when a weakened liver can no longer remove toxins from the blood. Those toxins, especially ammonia, build up and travel to the brain, causing mental and motor function impairment. In advanced stages, it can even lead to coma. This condition is captured in medical records under ICD-10 code K72.90.
You may experience one or more of the following warning signs:
This condition arises when factors lead to an accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream, most notably ammonia:
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The ICD-10 code for Hepatic Encephalopathy is K72.90. This code is used by healthcare providers to accurately document and track the condition in medical records.
An ammonia level over 50 mol/L is often viewed as elevated and may indicate hepatic encephalopathy. Your doctor will interpret this value in the context of your overall health.
Yes. With timely diagnosis, proper treatment, and ongoing care, many patients manage symptoms effectively and maintain a good quality of life for years.
Lactulose and rifaximin are the most commonly prescribed medications. Lactulose reduces toxin absorption in the gut, while rifaximin targets bacteria that produce harmful compounds.
Rifaximin is a non-absorbed antibiotic that decreases the population of gut bacteria responsible for creating ammonia and other neurotoxins, helping to lower toxin levels in the blood.
Hepatic Encephalopathy can be triggered by factors that increase blood ammonia or reduce liver clearance, such as bleeding in the digestive tract, infections, dehydration, high-protein meals, or certain medications.
Your doctor may prescribe lactulose to trap ammonia in the colon for removal, alongside dietary changes like reducing protein intake to limit ammonia production in the gut.
Yes. A tailored diet with controlled protein levels helps minimize ammonia generation. Nutrition specialists often work with patients to balance protein needs while preventing toxin buildup.
Hepatic Encephalopathy itself isn't curable, but its symptoms can be managed effectively with medication, dietary adjustments, and treatment of underlying liver disease.
If you suspect Hepatic Encephalopathy or experience related symptoms, call GastroDoxs in Jersey Village. Our team offers prompt evaluation, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support.
