What it is
It needs emergency treatment in hospital, usually in intensive care, to protect the brain and other organs.
Early treatment improves the chance of recovery, but some people are left with brain damage.
Common signs
- Repeated vomiting
- Sleepiness or loss of energy
- Confusion or unusual behaviour
- Fast breathing
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
How it is usually diagnosed
- Blood tests, including liver tests
- Brain scans
- Sometimes a lumbar puncture or liver biopsy
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Blood test results
- Scan reports
- Intensive care discharge letters
- Follow-up letters
Questions to ask your doctor
- What follow-up will my child need?
- Which painkillers are safe in future?
- Are there any lasting effects to watch for?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A child with repeated vomiting, confusion, drowsiness or seizures after a viral illness: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.