Is there a prince in the house

[Zippydoodah]

Hi everyoneFirst time caller. I have cirrhosis, diagnosed last year. Recently I have been falling asleep during the day, literally just dropping off. I've never felt this tired, or confused. I forget everything or so it seems. Is this part of the plan?

Thanks enjoy your day.

[Fibro2021]

Hi. Your symptoms—daytime sleepiness, confusion, and forgetfulness—could be related to hepatic encephalopathy (HE), which can occur in cirrhosis when the liver struggles to clear ammonia and other toxins from the blood. It’s important to mention these symptoms to your doctor, as HE can range from mild cognitive issues to more serious impairments.

Have you had any changes in your diet, medications, or bowel habits? Sometimes constipation, infections, or even dehydration can trigger or worsen these symptoms. Treatment usually involves lactulose or rifaximin to help reduce toxin buildup.

If these symptoms are new or getting worse, it’s a good idea to get checked sooner rather than later. Do you have an appointment scheduled?

[Zippydoodah in reply to Fibro2021]

Hi, thank you, I will take your advice and let my gp know. Have a lovely day

[QuietButBold]

Hello Zippydoodah.

I am wondering if your diet might need some attention - as cirrhosis can mean you need more energy (calories) and protein.

britishlivertrust.org.uk/in...

As Fibro2021 said; your Doctor needs to know about these new symptoms.

You might find that your Dr, for example, wants to check for malnutrition and also your blood sugar level.

If I were in your place, I wouldn't want to wait for my next scheduled appointment, rather, I would contact my Doctor and update them on what has started happening on this topic.

Best wishes.

[Zippydoodah in reply to QuietButBold]

Thanks I will take your advice and let my gp know. Enjoy your day.

[ColinH324]

You really need to be able to discuss things with a liver specialist (hepatologist), as your GP will only have limited knowledge/information on what to expect, how to treat the symptoms, etc.

Hepatic Encephalopathy can be treated with lactulose and rifaximin, but needs proper diagnosis and monitoring which community blood testing is not normally able to do, as the blood sample has to be 'put on ice' and tested fairly quickly.

The tiredness is fairly common, eat regularly, healthy protein is good, again, a hepatologist can help provide info and maybe arrange for you to discuss with a dietitian.

Keep well hydrated, eat healthy and have frequent small amounts as a damaged liver is unable to fulfil its role as the body's energy store as effectively as one without damage.

[Readlots]

Hi Zippy, not part of the plan, but definitely part of living with liver disease. Fatigue is one of the main and annoying symptoms. I think it contributes to the forgetfulness. Not necessarily, anything to worry about but worth talking to your doctor about. I regularly forget where I put my glasses. Found two pairs on my head when I got back from a dog walk. And I’d seen 3 neighbours to talk to! The dog really could have told me… 🤭

[Aztec632 in reply to Readlots]

I few times I have gone to put sunglasses on top of my other glasses sitting on my face 😂 fatigue! and in your situation yes I agree the dog should have told you 😜 at least it gave the neighbours something to talk about.