What are the symptoms of encephalitis. How is encephalitis diagnosed. What causes encephalitis. How is encephalitis treated. Can encephalitis be prevented. What are the long-term effects of encephalitis. How does encephalitis impact quality of life.

Understanding Encephalitis: A Serious Brain Inflammation

Encephalitis is a rare but severe condition characterized by inflammation of the brain tissue. This potentially life-threatening illness requires immediate medical attention and hospitalization. While it can affect individuals of any age, the very young and elderly are at highest risk for complications.

What exactly is encephalitis?

Encephalitis occurs when the brain tissue becomes swollen due to inflammation. This swelling can interfere with normal brain function and lead to a range of neurological symptoms. The condition can develop rapidly or gradually over days or weeks, making early recognition crucial for optimal treatment outcomes.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Encephalitis

Identifying encephalitis early can be challenging, as initial symptoms often mimic those of less severe illnesses. However, being aware of the progression and potential warning signs is essential for prompt medical intervention.

Initial flu-like symptoms

Encephalitis often begins with symptoms similar to the flu, including:

• High fever
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches

Serious neurological symptoms

As the condition progresses, more severe symptoms may develop over hours, days, or weeks:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Seizures or fits
• Personality and behavior changes
• Difficulty speaking
• Weakness or paralysis in certain body parts
• Loss of consciousness

When should you seek emergency medical care for suspected encephalitis? If you or someone you know experiences any of these serious neurological symptoms, especially in combination with flu-like illness, call emergency services immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial for the best possible outcome.

Unraveling the Causes of Encephalitis

While the exact cause of encephalitis is not always identifiable, several factors can contribute to its development. Understanding these potential triggers can help with prevention and guide treatment approaches.

Viral infections: The most common culprit

Viruses are the leading cause of encephalitis. Some of the viral agents associated with the condition include:

• Herpes simplex virus (HSV): Responsible for cold sores and genital herpes
• Varicella-zoster virus: Causes chickenpox and shingles
• Enteroviruses: A group of viruses that commonly cause mild gastrointestinal or respiratory illnesses
• Arboviruses: Transmitted by mosquitoes or ticks (e.g., West Nile virus, Japanese encephalitis virus)

Autoimmune encephalitis

In some cases, encephalitis can result from a malfunction in the immune system. The body’s defense mechanisms mistakenly attack healthy brain tissue, leading to inflammation and neurological symptoms.

Rare causes of encephalitis

While less common, bacterial and fungal infections can also trigger encephalitis. These cases often occur in individuals with compromised immune systems or as a complication of another illness.

Is encephalitis contagious? It’s important to note that encephalitis itself is not contagious. However, some of the viruses that can cause encephalitis, such as herpes simplex or varicella-zoster, can be transmitted from person to person through close contact.

Diagnosing Encephalitis: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Accurately diagnosing encephalitis requires a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Early and precise diagnosis is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment and minimizing potential complications.

Clinical evaluation

The diagnostic process typically begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Healthcare providers will assess neurological function and look for signs of infection or inflammation.

Laboratory tests

Several tests may be performed to help confirm the diagnosis and identify the underlying cause:

• Blood tests: To check for signs of infection and inflammation
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): Analyzes cerebrospinal fluid for evidence of infection or abnormal immune activity
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing: Detects viral genetic material in cerebrospinal fluid or blood

Imaging studies

Brain imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing encephalitis and ruling out other conditions:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images of brain structure and can reveal areas of inflammation
• Computed Tomography (CT) scan: May be used initially to rule out other causes of neurological symptoms

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

An EEG measures electrical activity in the brain and can help detect seizures or abnormal brain wave patterns associated with encephalitis.

Treatment Strategies for Encephalitis

Treatment for encephalitis focuses on addressing the underlying cause, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. Early intervention is crucial for improving outcomes and reducing the risk of long-term neurological damage.

Antiviral medications

For viral encephalitis, antiviral drugs are the cornerstone of treatment. Acyclovir is commonly used for herpes simplex encephalitis, while other antivirals may be prescribed depending on the suspected viral cause.

Immunosuppressive therapies

In cases of autoimmune encephalitis, treatments aim to suppress the abnormal immune response. This may include:

• Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation
• Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG): To modulate the immune system
• Plasma exchange: To remove harmful antibodies from the blood

Supportive care

Managing symptoms and preventing complications is a crucial aspect of encephalitis treatment:

• Medications to control seizures
• Pain relievers and fever reducers
• Respiratory support, including mechanical ventilation if necessary
• Maintaining proper hydration and nutrition

How long does treatment for encephalitis typically last? The duration of hospital stay can vary widely, ranging from a few days to several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the condition and individual patient factors.

Long-Term Outlook and Recovery from Encephalitis

The recovery process following encephalitis can be complex and varies significantly among individuals. While some patients make a full recovery, others may experience lasting effects due to brain damage.

Potential long-term complications

Common long-term effects of encephalitis may include:

• Memory problems
• Recurrent seizures or epilepsy
• Personality and behavioral changes
• Cognitive difficulties (e.g., problems with attention, concentration, planning)
• Persistent fatigue
• Physical disabilities

Rehabilitation and support

Many patients require ongoing rehabilitation to address lingering neurological deficits. This may involve:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech and language therapy
• Cognitive rehabilitation
• Psychological support

How can family members support a loved one recovering from encephalitis? Patience, understanding, and active involvement in the rehabilitation process are crucial. Encouraging the patient to follow medical advice, attend therapy sessions, and maintain a positive outlook can significantly impact recovery.

Preventing Encephalitis: Vaccination and Risk Reduction

While not all cases of encephalitis are preventable, certain measures can reduce the risk of developing the condition, particularly for specific types of viral encephalitis.

Vaccination

Immunization plays a crucial role in preventing some forms of encephalitis. Key vaccines include:

• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine
• Japanese encephalitis vaccine (for travelers to endemic areas)
• Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine (for high-risk regions)
• Rabies vaccination (for travelers to areas with limited medical care)

Mosquito and tick prevention

For arbovirus-related encephalitis, reducing exposure to mosquitoes and ticks is essential:

• Use insect repellent
• Wear protective clothing
• Eliminate standing water around your home
• Use bed nets in endemic areas

General health practices

Maintaining overall health can help reduce the risk of infections that may lead to encephalitis:

• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing
• Boost your immune system through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have active viral infections

Are there any specific groups who should be extra cautious about encephalitis prevention? Individuals with weakened immune systems, the very young, and older adults should be particularly vigilant about preventive measures and seek prompt medical attention for any concerning symptoms.

Living with the Aftermath: Quality of Life After Encephalitis

The impact of encephalitis on an individual’s quality of life can be significant and long-lasting. Understanding these challenges and available support systems is crucial for patients and their families.

Cognitive and emotional challenges

Many encephalitis survivors face ongoing cognitive difficulties that can affect daily life:

• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood swings or depression
• Anxiety, particularly in social situations

Physical limitations

Some individuals may experience persistent physical symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Balance problems
• Sensory disturbances

Coping strategies and support

Adapting to life after encephalitis often requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Ongoing medical care and follow-up
• Neuropsychological assessment and cognitive rehabilitation
• Support groups and counseling
• Occupational therapy to improve daily living skills
• Assistive technologies for cognitive or physical limitations

How can employers and educational institutions support individuals recovering from encephalitis? Flexibility, understanding, and willingness to make reasonable accommodations are key. This may include modified work schedules, extra time for tasks, or assistive technologies to help manage cognitive difficulties.

Advancing Research: The Future of Encephalitis Treatment and Prevention

Ongoing scientific research continues to shed light on the complexities of encephalitis, paving the way for improved diagnostic techniques, more effective treatments, and potentially new preventive strategies.

Diagnostic advancements

Researchers are working on developing more rapid and accurate diagnostic tools, including:

• Advanced neuroimaging techniques
• Biomarker identification for specific types of encephalitis
• Improved PCR testing for viral detection

Novel treatment approaches

Emerging therapies under investigation include:

• Targeted immunotherapies for autoimmune encephalitis
• Neuroprotective agents to minimize brain damage
• Gene therapy for certain viral causes of encephalitis

Vaccine development

Efforts are underway to develop vaccines for additional viral causes of encephalitis, potentially expanding preventive options in the future.

What role do clinical trials play in advancing encephalitis research? Clinical trials are crucial for evaluating the safety and efficacy of new diagnostic tools, treatments, and preventive measures. Patients and healthcare providers should stay informed about ongoing trials that may offer access to cutting-edge therapies.

In conclusion, encephalitis remains a serious neurological condition with potential long-term consequences. However, advances in medical understanding, improved diagnostic techniques, and evolving treatment strategies offer hope for better outcomes. Early recognition of symptoms, prompt medical intervention, and comprehensive rehabilitation are key factors in maximizing recovery and quality of life for those affected by this challenging illness.

Encephalitis – NHS

Encephalitis is an uncommon but serious condition in which the brain becomes inflamed (swollen).

It can be life threatening and requires urgent treatment in hospital.

Anyone can be affected, but the very young and very old are most at risk.

Symptoms of encephalitis

Encephalitis usually starts off with flu-like symptoms, such as a high temperature and headache.

More serious symptoms come on over hours, days or weeks, including:

• confusion or disorientation
• seizures or fits
• changes in personality and behaviour
• difficulty speaking
• weakness or loss of movement in some parts of the body
• loss of consciousness

Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you or someone else has these serious symptoms.

Causes of encephalitis

It’s not always clear what causes encephalitis, but it can be caused by:

• viral infections – very rarely, encephalitis may be caused by the common viruses that causes cold sores (herpes simplex) or chickenpox (herpes varicella) spreading to the brain
• a problem with the immune system, the body’s defence against infection – sometimes something goes wrong with the immune system and it mistakenly attacks the brain, causing it to become inflamed
• bacterial or fungal infections – these are much rarer causes of encephalitis than viral infections

Some types of encephalitis are spread by mosquitoes (such as Japanese encephalitis), ticks (such as tick-borne encephalitis) and mammals (such as rabies).

You cannot catch encephalitis from someone else.

Treatments for encephalitis

Encephalitis needs to be treated in a hospital. The earlier treatment is started, the more successful it’s likely to be.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause, but may include:

• antiviral medicines
• steroid injections
• treatments to help control the immune system
• antibiotics or antifungal medicines
• painkillers to reduce discomfort or a high temperature
• medicine to control seizures or fits
• support with breathing, such as oxygen through a face mask or a breathing machine (ventilator)

How long someone with encephalitis needs to stay in hospital can range from a few days to several weeks or even months.

Recovering from encephalitis

Some people eventually make a full recovery from encephalitis, although this can be a long and frustrating process.

Many people never make a full recovery and are left with long-term problems caused by damage to their brain.

Common complications include:

• memory loss (amnesia)
• frequent seizures or fits
• personality and behavioural changes
• problems with attention, concentration, planning and problem solving
• persistent tiredness

These problems can have a significant impact on the life of the affected person, as well as their family and friends.

But help and support is available.

Preventing encephalitis

It’s not always possible to prevent encephalitis, but some of the infections that cause it can be prevented with vaccinations.

These include the:

• measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine – a routine vaccination offered to all children in England
• Japanese encephalitis vaccine – recommended for travellers to at-risk areas, such as parts of Asia
• tick-borne encephalitis vaccine – recommended for travellers to certain parts of Europe (but not the UK) and Asia
• rabies vaccination – recommended for travellers to at-risk where access to medical care is likely to be limited. Find out about rabies risks in terrestrial animals by country on GOV.UK.

Speak to a GP surgery if you’re not sure whether your vaccinations are up to date, or you’re planning to travel abroad and do not know if you need any vaccinations.

Page last reviewed: 15 May 2023
Next review due: 15 May 2026

Viral encephalitis – Better Health Channel

Summary

Read the full fact sheet

• Viral encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a virus.
• The most serious potential complication is permanent brain damage. 
• Children aged under one year and adults aged over 55 years are at increased risk of life-threatening complications.
• Treatment options include medication to relieve the symptoms and antiviral medications if appropriate.

What is viral encephalitis?

Viral encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a virus. Some viral diseases, such as measles and rubella, can also progress to involve inflammation of the brain. Other micro-organisms, such as bacteria, fungi and parasites, are capable of triggering encephalitis, but viruses – particularly the group known as enteroviruses – are the leading cause.

Once inside the blood, the viruses migrate to the brain where they start to multiply. The body notices the invasion and mounts an immune system response. This causes the brain to swell. The combination of infection and immune response creates the typical symptoms of viral encephalitis.

The most serious potential complication from viral encephalitis is permanent brain damage. Children aged under one year and adults aged over 55 years are more vulnerable to life-threatening complications.

Symptoms of viral encephalitis

The symptoms of viral encephalitis include:

• high temperature
• headache
• sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• general malaise
• stiff neck
• stiff back
• vomiting
• changes to personality
• confusion
• memory loss (amnesia)
• seizures
• paralysis
• coma.

Viruses that can cause encephalitis

Some of the viruses that are capable of causing encephalitis include:

• enteroviruses – such as coxsackievirus, poliovirus and echovirus
• herpes simplex virus
• varicella zoster virus
• Epstein-Barr virus
• cytomegalovirus
• adenovirus
• rubella
• measles
• Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) virus and Kunjin virus
• Japanese encephalitis virus.

Modes of transmission of viruses

Viruses spread by different means, and some are more infectious than others. Some of the modes of viral transmission include:

• coughs or sneezes from an infected person that release airborne viruses, which are then inhaled by others
• infected insects (such as mosquitoes or ticks) and animals, which can transfer some viruses directly into the bloodstream via their bite
• eating contaminated food or drink
• the transfer of some viruses can occur through touching an infected person
• there is evidence to suggest that some cases of viral encephalitis are caused by a dormant viral infection (such as herpes simplex virus) becoming active again.

Infection and the immune system response

Once viruses have gained access to the bloodstream, they can multiply and spread to other parts of the body, including to the spinal cord and brain (the central nervous system). Access to the brain is by blood or nerves. After breaching the blood–brain barrier, the viruses slip inside brain cells. This disrupts, damages and ultimately ruptures the infected brain cells.

Certain viruses have a preference for different areas of the brain. For example, the herpes simplex virus likes to target the temporal lobes located near each ear.

The cells of the immune system rush to the brain and start attacking the viruses. This causes the characteristic brain swelling (cerebral oedema). Both the infection and the attempts of the body to fight the infection are responsible for the symptoms of viral encephalitis.

Complications of viral encephalitis

Babies, older people and people with reduced immunity are at increased risk of developing complications of viral encephalitis. Some of these complications include:

• low blood pressure (hypotension)
• low oxygen levels in the blood (hypoxaemia)
• bleeding inside the brain (intracerebral haemorrhage)
• permanent brain damage
• death.

Diagnosis of viral encephalitis

Viral encephalitis is diagnosed using a number of tests including:

• physical examination
• blood tests
• laboratory examination of cerebrospinal fluid (clear liquid that bathes the brain and spinal cord) removed via a lumbar puncture (a procedure in which a small needle is inserted into the lower part of the spine)
• computed tomography (CT) scan
• electroencephalography (EEG) to measure brain waves
• magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment for viral encephalitis

Unlike bacteria, viruses are difficult to treat. Antiviral medications only work on a limited number of viruses. Treatment aims to reduce the severity of the symptoms and may include:

• hospitalisation
• antiviral medication, given intravenously, if the virus is known to be susceptible to treatment with antiviral medication (such as the herpes simplex virus)
• intravenous administration of medications to help reduce brain swelling
• pain-relieving medication
• medication to prevent vomiting
• medication to prevent seizures (anticonvulsant)
• medication to reduce fever, such as paracetamol
• fluids to prevent dehydration, but not too much as this can worsen cerebral oedema (swelling of the brain).

Long-term outlook for viral encephalitis

The severity of viral encephalitis depends on the particular virus and how quickly treatment was given. Generally, the acute phase of the illness lasts around one or 2 weeks, and the symptoms either disappear quickly or subside slowly over a period of time.

In many cases, the person makes a full recovery. In other cases, the person can be left with varying degrees of brain damage, which may require long-term supportive care and therapy.

Where to get help

• Always call an ambulance in an emergency (triple zero) Tel. 000
• Emergency department of your nearest hospital
• Your GP (doctor)
• NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 (24 hours, 7 days) – for confidential health advice from a registered nurse

• EncephalitisExternal Link, 2017, Medscape, USA.

This page has been produced in consultation with and approved
by:

Department of Health – Public Health – Communicable Disease Prevention and Control

Inflammation of the meninges – diagnosis and treatment at 100med

What kind of disease is this

Meningitis is often referred to as inflammation of the meninges. In the event of its occurrence, the protective layers of the spinal cord and brain become inflamed. This occurs under the influence of simple microorganisms, bacteria, fungal or viral infections. In some cases, the cause of inflammation can be medication or an injury.

Symptoms

Symptoms of inflammation of the meninges:

• increase in body temperature;

• the occurrence of hearing problems;

• significant headaches;

• nausea;

• loss of consciousness;

• vomit;

• the appearance of a rash on the skin;

• neck stiffness;

• drowsiness;

• convulsions;

• mental problems, including apathy, hallucinations, anxiety, agitation and other types.

Causes

Causes of inflammation of the meninges:

• influence of the simplest microorganisms;

• the presence of fungal infections;

• bacterial types of infections;

• viral diseases;

• a combination of several types of pathogens.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of inflammation of the meninges is carried out as follows:

• general, PCR and biochemical blood tests;

• neurological examination;

• electroencephalography;

• puncture of the cerebrospinal type;

• CT study.

Write us an online chat

Our expert’s opinion

Meningitis occurs in acute, fulminant and chronic forms, so only with the right approach can a correct and timely diagnosis be made. Such a complex disease requires complex treatment and high professionalism of medical personnel.

Treatment

Therapy of inflammation of the meninges is carried out in the complex:

• the use of antiviral agents;

• the appointment of antipyretics;

• the use of painkillers;

• antifungal treatment;

• antibacterial therapy.

Also during the treatment of meningitis, it is important to maintain the body’s water balance and adhere to the diet recommended by the specialist.

Prevention

Prevention and treatment of inflammation of the meninges includes vaccination recommended for children, patients with immunodeficiency and persons in contact with carriers of the disease. Also, to prevent illness, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, regularly visit the fresh air, exercise, temper and avoid sources of infection. A balanced diet and the use of vitamin and mineral complexes can be a significant step in the prevention of inflammation of the meninges.

Neurologist, reflexologist, kinesiotherapist, PhD

Clinic in Lytkarino
Lytkarino

Neurologist

Clinic in Lyubertsy
Lyubertsy

Neurologist

Clinic in Lyubertsy
Lyubertsy

Neurologist, pediatric neurologist

Clinic in Lyubertsy
Lyubertsy

Neurologist, cephalologist

Clinic in Lyubertsy
Lyubertsy

Neurologist

Experience: 34

Clinic in Lytkarino
Lytkarino

Neurologist

Experience: 9

Clinic in Lyubertsy
Lyubertsy

Pediatric neurologist

Experience: 13

Clinic in Lyubertsy
Lyubertsy

Neurologist

Experience: 21

Clinic in Lytkarino
Lytkarino

Neurologist

Experience: 37

Clinic in Kashin
Kashin

Clinic in Lyubertsy

Lyubertsy, Oktyabrsky prospect, 133

Mon-Sat: 08:00 — 21:00
Sun: 09:00 — 21:00
Parking available

Details

Clinic in Lytkarino

Lytkarino, Quarter 3A, 1

Mon-Fri: 07:00 — 20:00
Sat-Sun: 07:00 — 20:00
Parking available

Details

Clinic in Kashin Karl Marx, 18/11

Mon-Sun: 07:00 – 19:00
Parking available

Details

Treatment of inflammation of the brain or spinal cord (meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis)

Treatment of inflammation of the brain or spinal cord (meningitis, encephalitis, myelitis)

Myelitis is a general term for diseases and any inflammatory processes affecting the human spinal cord. Encephalitis is a group of diseases characterized by inflammation of the brain. In turn, meningitis is an infectious disease that affects the membranes of both the spinal cord and the brain.

Causes of inflammation

Encephalitis is caused by neurotropic viruses. The disease can also occur due to complications of rubella, smallpox and measles, and infection can also occur through ticks or mosquitoes. Meningitis is caused mainly by three types of bacteria – pneumococci, meningococci and Haemophilus influenzae. Thus, the cause of inflammation of the spinal cord or brain one way or another are infections of a viral, fungal or bacterial nature, or parasites.

Symptoms

The clinical picture is determined by the general extent and severity of the lesion. In most cases, patients experience the following symptoms:

• headache
• rise in body temperature
• nausea
• sensitivity to light
• general weakness
• in extreme manifestations, paralysis, epileptic seizures, impaired consciousness, etc. are possible.

Diagnosis

To diagnose and start treatment of inflammation of the spinal cord or brain, it is necessary to be examined by a neurologist. In addition to the examination, additional studies are carried out, including:

• computed tomography of the spinal cord and/or brain
• magnetic resonance imaging
• lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid analysis, etc.

Treatment of inflammation of the brain or spinal cord

In such diseases, the doctors of the Viva Clinic prescribe mainly drug therapy. As an additional treatment for inflammation of the brain and spinal cord, physiotherapy exercises, physiotherapy, and massage sessions are indicated.

Drug therapy involves taking antibiotics, vitamins, antiseptics, and other drugs. In addition, to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment of inflammation of the spinal cord and brain, an important role is played by:

• proper nutrition
• bed rest
• competent rehabilitation after recovery

Neurologists

Departments where the procedure is performed

• Clinic at Vinogradarepr.