What stage is memory decline in cirrhosis?
Disease description:
My mother has recently experienced some memory decline, and the doctor said it's due to cirrhosis. During which stage of cirrhosis does memory impairment occur?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Memory decline in cirrhosis typically occurs in the advanced stages of the disease. This results from liver dysfunction caused by cirrhosis, leading to abnormal neurotransmitter metabolism, impaired cerebral blood circulation, sleep disturbances, and other contributing factors. In advanced cirrhosis, liver cell damage and inflammatory responses may disrupt the synthesis and metabolism of neurotransmitters, thereby affecting the brain's ability to transmit and store information. Additionally, portal hypertension caused by cirrhosis may lead to cerebral vascular dilation and blood congestion, reducing cerebral blood flow and further impairing memory. Therefore, when patients with cirrhosis experience memory decline, it may indicate that the disease has progressed to a more severe stage.
