Hepatic encephalopathy is a brain disorder developing due to the inability of the already weak liver to eliminate toxins in the blood. Such toxins, particularly ammonia accumulate and move to the brain leading to impairment of mental and motor functions. In the later stages it may even become coma. This disease is enshrined in the medical records in the ICD-10-CM code of 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:
Wait-early intervention is the key to the hepatic fibrosis management. Our professional team at GastroDoxs in Jersey Village will provide individual treatment plans, non-invasive state-of-the-art diagnostics, and continuous monitoring that will assist you in safeguarding and reinstating the health of your liver. Book online to now or request us to call 832-476-1649 to make your consultation. We weep to work with you on your way to a healthier you.
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Hepatic Encephalopathy can be coded as K72.90 under ICD-10. Healthcare providers use this code to properly record and track the condition in medical records.
A level above 50 µmol/L of ammonia is considered high and may indicate hepatic encephalopathy. Your doctor will interpret this value alongside your overall health.
Yes. With early diagnosis, effective treatment, and continuous care, many patients can manage symptoms and live well with the condition for years.
The most frequently prescribed drugs are lactulose and rifaximin. Lactulose reduces absorption of toxins in the gut, while rifaximin suppresses bacteria that produce harmful substances.
Rifaximin is a non-absorbed antibiotic that decreases gut bacteria producing ammonia and other neurotoxins, helping to reduce toxin levels in the blood.
Hepatic Encephalopathy may result from elevated blood ammonia or reduced liver clearance, caused by factors such as digestive tract bleeding, infections, dehydration, high-protein diets, or certain medications.
Your physician may recommend lactulose to trap ammonia in the colon for elimination, along with dietary modifications such as reducing protein intake to lower ammonia production.
Yes. A carefully managed diet helps reduce ammonia production. Nutrition specialists work with patients to balance protein intake and prevent toxin buildup.
Hepatic Encephalopathy is not curable, but symptoms can be managed effectively with medication, dietary changes, and treatment of underlying liver disease.
GastroDoxs in Jersey Village provides timely assessments, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing guidance for patients experiencing symptoms of Hepatic Encephalopathy.
