Hepatic Encephalopathy in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different hepatic encephalopathy patterns according to TCM theory
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Hepatic encephalopathy is a serious complication of liver disease that affects the brain. It occurs when the liver fails to remove toxins from the blood, leading to a buildup that impairs brain function. Symptoms can range from mild confusion and forgetfulness to severe personality changes, tremors, and even coma. This condition often arises in patients with chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis, and requires prompt medical attention to manage the underlying liver dysfunction and prevent further neurological damage.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views hepatic encephalopathy as a manifestation of underlying disharmony within the body. Unlike Western medicine, which focuses on the liver's inability to detoxify the blood, TCM considers patterns such as Phlegm misting the Mind, Heat in the Blood, and Qi Stagnation.
These patterns disrupt the normal flow of Qi and Blood, leading to symptoms affecting the Mind and consciousness. Identifying the correct pattern of disharmony is essential for effective treatment, as TCM aims to address the root cause and restore balance within the body.
Herbal Formulas for Hepatic Encephalopathy
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address hepatic encephalopathy