Encephalitis (inflamed brain)

Overview

Encephalitis can also come from the immune system attacking the brain.

Herpes encephalitis is treated with acyclovir right away.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Fever with confusion
• Seizure
• Severe headache
• New confusion or not acting like themselves

Less common

• Stiff neck

Look up a symptom: Fever · Headache · New confusion or not acting like themselves · Vomiting

When to get medical care

Causes

Viruses, immune reactions.

Does it spread or run in families?

• Yes, it can spread from person to person.
• How it spreads: bats, pigs, food tainted by bat saliva, urine, or bites.
• Washing hands often and staying home when sick help protect others.

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:
• Spinal tap:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Rest

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Use bug spray
• 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

• Stay home until 2 days after vomiting and diarrhea stop, especially if you work with food, children, or patients.
• Wash hands well after using the toilet.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Older adults and babies: Higher risk.
• Children and older adults: Higher risk.

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

Early treatment improves recovery.

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 Encephalitis (inflamed brain)