Encephalitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis And Treatment

0
78

The inflammation of the brain can result in encephalitis, a serious medical disorder. Numerous ailments, such as autoimmune diseases, infections, and other problems, might contribute to this inflammation. The causes, signs, prognosis, and treatment of encephalitis will all be covered in this blog post.

Encephalitis causes include

Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other infectious agents are just a few of the causes of encephalitis. Among the frequent causes of encephalitis are:

  • Infections with viruses: Viruses are the most frequent cause of encephalitis. Herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, West Nile virus, and Japanese encephalitis virus are a few of the viruses that can lead to encephalitis.
  • Bacterial infections are another factor in the development of encephalitis. Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Listeria monocytogenes are a few of the bacteria that can cause encephalitis.
  • Infections with fungi: Fungi can also cause encephalitis. A typical fungus that causes encephalitis is Cryptococcus neoformans.
  • Autoimmune illnesses: Autoimmune illnesses, in which the body’s immune system assaults its own tissues, can also result in encephalitis. Lupus and multiple sclerosis are two examples of autoimmune conditions that can cause encephalitis.

Encephalitis signs and symptoms:

Depending on the underlying reason and the severity of the illness, encephalitis symptoms might change. Common signs of encephalitis include the following:

1-Headache
2-Fever
3-Confusion
4-Seizures
5-Muscle tremor
6-Consciousness loss
7-Nausea and diarrhoea
8-Responsiveness to light
9-Rigid neck
10-Cognitive challenges
11-Identification of encephalitis

A comprehensive physical examination, medical history, and several testing are required to identify encephalitis. Tests that may be performed to identify encephalitis include the following:

1- A blood test
2- A spinal puncture
3- An MRI
4- MRI
5- EEG
6-Biopsy

How to treat encephalitis:

The aetiology and severity of the illness determine how to treat encephalitis. The majority of the time, treatment entails symptom management and supportive care. The following are a few examples of typical encephalitis treatments:

1- Drugs with an antiviral or antibacterial effect
2- Medicines that reduce inflammation
3- Anti-seizure drugs
4- Steroids
5- IV liquids
6- Oxygen treatment
7- Rehabilitative treatment

In conclusion, encephalitis is a serious illness that has a number of potential causes. If you have any of the encephalitis-related symptoms, it’s critical to get medical help. Early detection and intervention can enhance results and lower the chance of problems.