13. Confusion and Mental Changes: When the Mind Falters
Confusion and mental changes are symptoms that may be experienced by liver cancer patients, particularly in advanced stages of the disease. These cognitive changes can manifest as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or even personality changes. The cause of these symptoms is often linked to a condition known as hepatic encephalopathy, which occurs when the liver is unable to remove toxins from the bloodstream effectively.
As these toxins accumulate in the brain, they can cause inflammation and disrupt normal brain function, leading to confusion and other cognitive changes. It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms and seek medical advice if you or a loved one experiences any sudden or unexplained mental changes, as they could indicate liver cancer progression or another serious liver condition.
Treatment for hepatic encephalopathy typically involves addressing the underlying liver issue, such as providing supportive care for liver cancer or managing other liver-related conditions. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help reduce toxin levels in the bloodstream and alleviate cognitive symptoms. (13)
