Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain that occurs due to infection, certain medications, insect bites, or the immune system not functioning properly. It can cause physical symptoms as well as mental confusion. In some cases, the symptoms may linger long after the inflammation has been treated.
The physical symptoms of encephalitis include:
The neurological symptoms of encephalitis include:
Encephalitis can be caused by viruses like herpes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and any viruses that ticks carry. This is called viral encephalitis and is the most common type of encephalitis. It can also be caused by an attack on the brain by the immune system. This is known as autoimmune encephalitis. Rarely, bacterial infection and parasite invasion can cause encephalitis.
Risk factors for encephalitis include:
Your doctor may decide to do further tests for encephalitis based on your medical history and physical exam findings. These tests can include:
Complications of encephalitis are not common and depend on the age of the person and the severity of their infection. They are more likely to occur if encephalitis is left untreated. Complications may include:
Treatment for encephalitis is rest, high fluid intake, and medication to manage any pain. If you have a case of viral encephalitis, you will also be given antiviral medication. If you have a case of autoimmune encephalitis, your doctor will give you medication to stop the immune attack on your brain. Treatment for autoimmune encephalitis can be long-term.
Those with severe cases of encephalitis will receive supportive care, including assistance with breathing and other basic bodily functions, anti-inflammatory medication, and anti-seizure medication, if necessary.
If you experience a case of severe encephalitis, therapy may be necessary after the infection has been treated. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, brain exercises, and counselling.
Rehab can help with the lingering symptoms of encephalitis that stay even after the infection is gone. These often include trouble concentrating, constantly being tired, mood swings, trouble with memory, changes in personality, and trouble walking.
Prevention measures such as maintaining good hygiene and staying up to date on vaccinations can go a long way toward preventing encephalitis. You may also want to ask your doctor about getting the vaccines for tick-borne encephalitis and Japanese encephalitis if you’re travelling to areas where these are common diseases.