ADEM (brain and spinal cord inflammation after infection)

Overview

ADEM usually follows a viral infection by 1 to 3 weeks.

It often happens only once.

ADEM often follows a cold or other virus by 1 to 3 weeks.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Confusion after an infection
• Weakness

Less common

• Vision changes
• Seizures

Look up a symptom: Fever · Headache · Muscle weakness in arms or legs · New confusion or not acting like themselves

When to get medical care

Causes

Immune reaction.

Does it spread or run in families?

• The illness itself usually isn't passed to others, but some germs that cause it can spread.
• Washing hands often helps.

Who is more likely to get it

• Children

Possible complications

• Seizures: Can happen during the illness

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Go to the ER
• Rehab as needed

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Keep up with vaccines

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Learn CPR. Many hospitals and the Red Cross offer classes.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Most recover fully.

Most children recover fully in months.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on ADEM (brain and spinal cord inflammation after infection)