Encephalopathy means brain disease, damage, or malfunction. There are many types of encephalopathy, including types that are permanent, types that are temporary, types present from birth, and others acquired after birth.
Symptoms
Because encephalopathy refers to a broad range of conditions and diseases, symptoms can range from mild, such as memory loss, to severe, such as seizures, coma, or death.
Patients with encephalopathy usually have an altered mental state. Sometimes they also exhibit progressive memory loss, subtle personality changes, inability to concentrate, and lethargy.
In addition, they may exhibit tremors, muscle atrophy, weakness, dementia, seizures, and loss of ability to swallow or speak.
Recovery
The treatment for encephalopathy and the patient’s long-term outlook depends on the cause and severity of the disorder.
Some encephalopathies cause permanent brain damage, and some are fatal. However, many are reversible if identified and treated.
Treatments range from diet and medication to surgery and life support.
Cause
Encephalopathy can arise from physical trauma, an infection, or other medical conditions. Vaccines are sometimes associated with encephalopathy.
Related disorder
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. There are several causes, but the most common is a viral infection.
Contact Us
If you have been diagnosed with encephalopathy, contact our office for a free consultation with one of our experienced vaccine team members. You may be eligible for compensation from the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
You will never pay a fee for our services.
Learn more about encephalopathy:
- Encephalopathy description from National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
- Encephalopathy description from Verywell Health
- Encephalopathy description from Johns Hopkins