Driving.

Hello,

My husband has recently been diagnosed with decompensated cirrhosis. He has regular draining and 2 episodes of HE. He is now on appropriate medication and, apart from fatigue, doing ok.

I've been doing all the driving, but wondering whether he will be safe for short distances?

How do other people manage?

[AyrshireK]

My hubby gave up driving on diagnosis, he knows himself how his concentration and fatigue plus slowness of movement make him a hazard on the road - he falls asleep going short journeys even as a passenger. Some members with HE have been told to notify DVLA though HE itself isn't listed on DVLA list of notifiable conditions - if his liver issue is alcohol related then that in itself is notifiable to DVLA.

Better to keep yourselves right, if he had an accident it could lead to charges and perhaps invalidate insurance.

gov.uk/health-conditions-an...

Katie

[Hidden]

Good morning,

This is something you really should discuss with your husbands physician as there are significant implications. There is a lot of evidence that even minimal HE can affect driving performance. The DVLA requires notification for any medical condition that could affect the ability to drive and this includes neurological conditions which I think includes HE. There is a web site that you can check:

gov.uk/health-conditions-an...

I don't know if you have seen the trust publication on HE but if not it may be helpful, particularly the HE passport.

britishlivertrust.org.uk/li...

regards

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Hi

I have Nash caused by meds that my drs have given me over the years. I stopped driving a while ago, I spoke to DVLA and they said I'd done the right thing cos of all the meds plus fatigue, they have now got it on their records. They were pleased I'd took it upon myself not to drive. They asked for my license which I couldn't find so have put everything on record and sent me letter confirming not to drive. I know my reactions aren't the same.please take care. Love and hugs Lynne xxxx

[Paulinekp]

My husband has HE and was told he couldn't drive anymore and his insurance would not cover him anymore.

[Hidden]

Hi Catcher,

I think where you live has a great impact on whether or not your husband is allowed to drive with his diagnosis.

We live in the U.S. and my husband has resumed driving. Early on we had some grave concerns, but with both of us paying very close attention when he drove he is okay to drive and as his condition continues to improve incrementally so have his skills.

I think this is a topic best discussed with your husband's doctors who have a better handle on his current abilities. If you disagree with their opinion perhaps you could find out if there is a an appeal process or a way or place that could examine his skill set - like taking the drivers test again or even taking driving lessons that could give you both an answer.

Best wishes,

Mary