Most people think a urea cycle disorder, or UCD, is a condition that only affects the liver. But the most serious damage caused by a UCD actually happens in the brain. Symptoms like forgetfulness, a short attention span, moodiness, and even falling behind in reading abilities can all result from a UCD.
Ammonia in your blood can travel to your brain and harm your brain cells. High levels of ammonia can cause your brain cells to swell and malfunction, which can damage them to the point that they no longer work at all. One instance of elevated ammonia may not cause a permanent problem. But the more often your ammonia levels are elevated over time, the more likely it is that damage to your brain will be serious and permanent.
Damage to brain cells can make it difficult for you to make decisions and can cause you to function at a lower level than a typical person your age.