WHAT IS ENCEPHALITIS? 

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, caused by any one of a number of viruses.

It can be very serious and cause seizures, weakness, changes in personality and other symptoms depending on the part of the brain affected. It targets the children, elderly, and those with a weak immune system mostly.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ENCEPHALITIS? 

The symptoms of encephalitis are usually sudden and severe.They resemble flu and in few cases, individuals may become progressively worse over time. Symptoms include:

• Fever

• Drowsiness, lethargy, and possibly coma

• Headaches

• Personality changes, irritability, or emotional outbursts

• Confusion

• Weakness in one or more areas of the body

• Seizures

• Bulging soft spots in infants

• Fatigue, muscle weakness, rhythmic muscle contractions, pain

• Sore throat

• Stiff neck and back

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting and nausea

• Unsteady gait

• Problems with coordination

• Visual sensitivity to light, etc

Infants may have poor feeding, irritability, vomiting, and body stiffness and may require immediate medical attention. 

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF ENCEPHALITIS 

Diagnosis: Diagnosis of encephalitis is arrived at by reviewing symptoms, conducting a physical examination and questions around recent illnesses and possible exposure to viruses or near mosquitoes or ticks infested areas, etc. In addition the following diagnostic tests may be conducted. 

• Blood investigations and imaging study of the brain with CT scan or MRI 

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) study to detect genetic material of the virus 

• EEG to detect brain irregularities

• A lumbar puncture or spinal tap, to isolate and identify the virus

• Urine or serum toxicology screening tests 

Treatment: The treatment of Encephalitis depends on the Doctor's working diagnosis, patient’s age and condition. If the encephalitis is due to non-viral causes, other treatments, specific to the cause, are required. Predominantly treatment involves symptom relief. People with viral encephalitis are kept hydrated with IV fluids while being monitored for brain swelling and medicated against seizure control. Diuretics may be used to lower intracranial pressure in individuals who have encephalitis and increased intracranial pressure.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

1. Consult a Doctor immediately if an infant, child, or adult develops acute signs and symptoms of encephalitis. 

2. The following measures are advised for prevention of encephalitis that is transmitted by mosquitoes or ticks: 

• Wear full length pants and long-sleeved shirts to avoid ticks and mosquitoes 

• Use insect repellent on exposed areas of the body

• Avoid spending a long time outdoors during dusk 

• Vaccinate children against viruses that can cause encephalitis (measles, mumps), etc.

• In case of pregnant women, C-section can be performed if the mother has active herpes lesions of the genital tract