Encephalopathy history and symptoms: Difference between revisions
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==Overview== | ==Overview== | ||
The hallmark of encephalopathy is an altered mental state. | The hallmark of encephalopathy is an altered mental state. Obtaining history from such patients is tough as they are disoriented. History about onset , duration and progression of encephalopathy are to be obtained. A few symptoms like confusion, disorientation are seen. Symptoms of other organ failure may be noticed. | ||
==History== | ==History== | ||
Revision as of 19:55, 21 July 2012
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Encephalopathy |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Encephalopathy history and symptoms On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Encephalopathy history and symptoms |
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Risk calculators and risk factors for Encephalopathy history and symptoms |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Govindavarjhulla, M.B.B.S. [2]
Overview
The hallmark of encephalopathy is an altered mental state. Obtaining history from such patients is tough as they are disoriented. History about onset , duration and progression of encephalopathy are to be obtained. A few symptoms like confusion, disorientation are seen. Symptoms of other organ failure may be noticed.
History
History is the most important part of a evaluation. It provides insight into cause, precipitating factors and associated co morbid conditions. Complete history helps in deciding the right therapy for the person and helps in determining the prognosis. Encephalopathy patients are disoriented most of the times and may be tough to interview. In such cases history from the care givers or the family members is taken into consideration. Specific histories about the symptoms (duration, onset, progression), associated symptoms, drug usage have to be obtained.
- Onset, duration and progression of symptoms
- Associated symptoms(lethargy, fever, confusion)
- Medications
- Trauma
- Symptoms of other organ failure (Renal failure, Liver failure, Adrenal failure)
- Poisons or chemicals ingested
- Co-morbid conditions like diabetes, immunodeficiency
- Severe infections
- Any dehydration history for severe loss of fluids
- Exposure to toxic substances
- Trauma
Symptoms
There is a frequent overlap between complications and symptoms. It is due to the fact that encephalopathy may present in any manner. Associated symptoms gives us clue about the cause of the disease.
- Confusion or agitation
- Changes in behavior and personality
- Progressive cognitive ability
- Forgetfulness
- Disorientation
- Insomnia
- Muscle stiffness or rigidity
- Tremor (particularly a flapping tremor of the hands)
- Difficulty speaking
- Asterixis (rapid momentary loss of tone in the muscles)
- Uncontrollable movements or seizures
- Stupor or coma
Associated symptoms
Symptoms associated with other diseases and co-morbid conditions.
- Cheyne-Stokes respirations - an altered breathing pattern seen with brain damage and coma
- Hematemesis
- Nausea and vomiting
- Severe headache
- Dyspnea
- Visual disturbances
- Palpitations, angina
- Hematuria