Herpes encephalitis: symptoms, causes, drugs, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is herpes encephalitis?

Herpes encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain usually caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV can cause contagious infections. One of these types of HSV-1 can cause canker sores in the mouth which are called cold sore. Another type, namely HSV-2, is the cause of genital herpes. The virus settles on the nerves in the body and stays permanently.

Herpes encephalitis is a medical emergency. If not treated immediately it can be fatal. It can also trigger a variety of serious illnesses, including severe nervous system problems.

How common is herpes encephalitis?

Herpes encephalitis is a disease that can affect anyone of any age, both women and men. One third of people with herpes encephalitis are children. You can prevent this disease by reducing risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of herpes encephalitis?

Symptoms of herpes encephalitis usually last for several days and often appear without warning. The early symptoms of herpes encephalitis are:

• Headache
• Fever
• Stiff neck
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling weak, lethargic, and not feeling energized

Once the initial symptoms appear, the infected person may have difficulty communicating either through speech, writing, and / or signs (aphasia). In some cases, more serious symptoms can also appear. These symptoms include personality changes, paralysis, hallucinations, convulsions and even coma. Severe herpes encephalitis can cause death if not treated immediately or if the patient does not respond to the treatment given.

There may be other symptoms and signs not listed above. If you have concerns about the symptoms of this disease, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

Get immediate treatment if you or someone you know has serious symptoms such as:

• Severe headache that doesn't get better
• High fever
• Psychological changes requiring urgent care

Health status and conditions can vary from person to person. Always discuss with your doctor to find the best diagnostics, treatment and treatment for you.

Cause

What causes herpes encephalitis?

Herpes encephalitis is an infectious complication of the herpes simplex virus. In most cases, this disorder is caused by the herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-I). In rare cases, usually in newborns (neonates), this disorder is caused by the herpes simplex virus type II (HSV-II).

Risk factors

What increases my risk of getting herpes encephalitis?

Anyone can get encephalitis. Factors that can increase your risk of getting herpes encephalitis are:

• Age. Some types of brain inflammation are more common or more severe if they occur across a certain age group. Children and adults are more at risk for this type of inflammatory brain virus. Inflammation of the brain caused by the herpes simplex virus tends to be higher in those aged 20 to 40 years.
• Decreased immune system. People with HIV / AIDS, who use drugs to maintain their immunity, or have other conditions that cause a weakened immune system can have a higher risk of developing inflammation of the brain.
• Geographical conditions. Mosquitoes or tick-borne viruses are a major culprit in certain geographic areas.

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are the treatment options for herpes encephalitis?

Herpes encephalitis is an emergency and a neurologist must be involved in its treatment. ICU care in the hospital may be required.

Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and prevent symptoms from recurring. Because this infection can be life-threatening, your doctor will start treatment immediately before knowing the test results.

Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and vidarabine can be used to treat this inflammation of the brain. Acyclovir generally works better and contains less chemicals. Anticonvulsants can also be prescribed to stop and prevent seizures.

Nutritional and fluid intake is also important for the course of treatment. Swelling of the brain requires therapy, such as raising the head during sleep and using drugs such as corticosteroids to block inflammation of the brain.

Even with treatment, patients can still be at risk for complications and side effects from drug use, especially in thinking skills and memory problems as well as seizures.

Physical therapy and speech therapy and other treatments may be required after the recovery period of the disease. Herpes encephalitis treatment will take a long time.

What are the usual tests for herpes encephalitis?

The doctor will make a diagnosis based on your medical history and physical examination. Laboratory tests, CT scans, MRI, and ECG can be done to help diagnosis but this does not include other diseases.

The doctor will insert a blister (spinal tap) to collect cerebrospinal fluid. A brain biopsy may be needed for the final diagnosis.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be used to treat herpes encephalitis?

Some of the lifestyle changes and home remedies that can help you deal with herpes encephalitis are:

• Try to prevent this disease by avoiding exposure to the HSV virus. So, taking steps to prevent genital herpes by avoiding kissing and having oral sex with someone who is infected with the herpes virus can widen the area of ​​spreading the infection.
• Eat healthy foods to strengthen your immune system.
• Get enough sleep and exercise regularly.
• Wash your hands often.
• Diligently consult a doctor to monitor the progress of your condition.
• Have a cesarean delivery if you are a woman with active genital herpes.
• See a consultant if you feel insecure or depressed.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.