Page 17 - Time to DeLiver: Getting a Grip on HE report 2015

CASE STUDY

Jane*, a 65-year-old mother and medical
secretary.

Jane’s husband, Tony, was frequently away for work so
over many years she was regularly left to manage the
household and her career. Over time, it was clear to
Jane’s family that she was not well. For example, she
loved crosswords, yet eventually she could not even read the paper or magazines,
let alone complete a crossword. Although Jane was being monitored by her
gastroenterologist, her symptoms worsened over a two year period until eventually
she was unable to follow television programmes, and Tony had to take on more of
the day-to-day running of their home. In addition, Tony felt like Jane was becoming
increasingly depressed.

Jane’s symptoms eventually became so severe that she needed a walking stick and
Tony frequently had to help her in and out of the bath and bed. When one day she
became so ill that she was unable to walk, did not know where she was and became
very upset; Tony called an ambulance. Jane was admitted to hospital where she
became even more confused, disorientated and suffered from hallucinations. Jane
remained in hospital for an extended period, and while her symptoms did improve a
little, she still did not receive a diagnosis until a doctor recognised the signs of cirrhosis
and hepatic encephalopathy and referred her to a liver specialist.

After meeting the liver specialist, Jane was diagnosed with hepatic encephalopathy and
prescribed medical treatment. She is now feeling much more herself and her symptoms
have improved. She is able to watch television, read magazines, help with some
household tasks and she has even taken up yoga.

*Jane’s real name has been omitted at her request.

15