Hepatic encephalopathy, also called portal-systemic encephalopathy. This condition occurs when a heavily damaged liver is unable to filter toxins from the blood or when blood flow through the liver is blocked. The condition may occur in people with either acute fulminant hepatitis or long-term chronic liver disease. Few patients with chronic hepatitis C develop full-blown hepatic encephalopathy; however, some degree of brain impairment may occur in as many as three-quarters of those (estimated at 10-25 percent) who develop advanced liver cirrhosis. Hepatic encephalopathy is distinct from the more common “brain fog” that often experienced by people with HCV.
Hepatic Encephalopathy Symptoms
Symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy can range from barely perceptible changes to hepatic coma.
Cognitive dysfunction may include lack of concentration, irritability, impaired short-term memory, confusion, disorientation, slowed reaction times, and dementia. Some people experience personality, mood, or behavior changes. Motor symptoms can range from muscle tremors to asterixis (flapping of the hands when they are held out in front of the body) to altered reflexes. Changes in consciousness may occur, progressing from decreased alertness and daytime sleepiness to lethargy and stupor.
My mother suffers from H.E. and I have noticed that some of her symptoms are reflective of a "drunk" sort of state of being. You may want to encourage your parent to see a doctor ASAP as this can lead to very serious complications if left untreated.