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Viral Encephalitis has several causes, but the most common is a viral infection. Encephalitis often causes only mild flu-like signs and can also cause confused thinking, seizures, or problems with movement or with senses such as sight or hearing. This condition is life-threatening and needs a timely diagnosis and treatment.
Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by a virus. · The most serious potential complication is permanent brain damage. Viral encephalitis may develop during or after infection with any of several viral illnesses including influenza, herpes simplex, measles, and mumps.
Symptoms of Viral Encephalitis
- Headache
- Fever
- Aches in muscles or joints
- Fatigue or weakness
- Loss of sensation or paralysis in certain areas of the face or body
- Muscle weakness
- Problems with speech or hearing
- Loss of consciousness
Get immediate care if you are experiencing any of the more severe symptoms associated with encephalitis. A severe headache, fever, and altered consciousness require urgent care.
The 7 Causes of Viral Encephalitis
Common viral causes of Encephalitis are:
- Herpes simplex virus. This condition is associated with cold sores and fever blisters around the mouth. Encephalitis that is caused by this virus is more likely to cause brain damage.
- Other herpes viruses. It includes the Epstein-Barr virus. The Epstein-Barr virus causes infectious mononucleosis, and the varicella-zoster virus, which commonly causes chickenpox and shingles.
- Enteroviruses. Poliovirus and the coxsackievirus are included as typical causes of viral encephalitis. It causes an illness with flu-like symptoms, eye inflammation, and abdominal pain.
- Mosquito-borne viruses. These viruses can cause infections. After exposure to a mosquito-borne virus, symptoms may appear from a few days to a few weeks later.
- Tick-borne viruses. The Powassan virus is carried by ticks and causes encephalitis. Symptoms usually appear about a week after a bite from an infected tick.
- Rabies virus. Infection with the rabies virus from an infected animal causes a rapid progression to encephalitis once symptoms begin. Nonetheless, rabies is a rare cause of encephalitis.
- Childhood infections. Common childhood infections are common causes of secondary encephalitis. These causes are now rare in the United States due to the availability of vaccinations for these diseases.
What are the Risk Factors of Viral Encephalitis?
Some types of encephalitis are more common or more severe in certain age groups. A weakened immune system may also increase your risk of viral encephalitis. Other risk factors are not specified but maintaining proper hygiene and a clean environment may reduce your risk of the disease.
Diagnosing Viral Encephalitis
- Brain imaging. MRI or CT images can reveal any swelling of the brain
- A spinal tap can indicate infection and inflammation in the brain.
- Other lab tests
- An electroencephalogram indicates a diagnosis of encephalitis.
- Brain biopsy
Treatment for Viral Encephalitis
Treatments depend on the severity of the condition. For mild encephalitis, your doctor may recommend rest, fluid therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Supportive care, speech therapy, and immunotherapy may also help. Antiviral medications may also help manage and control the symptoms and worsening of the infection. This includes:
