Do I Have Encephalitis?

Do you have a headache?

Do you have mild flu-like symptoms such as aches, fatigue, or a slight fever?

Do you have sensitivity to light?

Do you have stiff neck?

Are you sleepy or lethargic?

Do you feel increased irritability?

Do you have seizures?

Do you feel confusion or have hallucinations?

Do you have lack of energy?

Have you lost your appetite?

Do you have an unsteady gait?

Do you have nausea and vomiting?

Do you have a loss of sensation or paralysis in certain areas of the face or body?

Do you have double vision?

Do you have problems with speech or hearing?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have encephalitis. Encephalitis is a medical condition that refers to an inflammation of the brain. The inflammation causes swelling of the brain, which often leads to flu-like symptoms. Encephalitis is usually caused by a viral infection, but it can also be the result of a malfunctioning immune system, a bacterial or fungal infection. Despite extensive testing, the cause of encephalitis still remains unknown in about 30 percent of cases. In the last decade, there have been more than 250,000 patients diagnosed with encephalitis in the United States. Anyone can get encephalitis, but it is more common in younger people.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have encephalitis. Encephalitis is a serious health condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the brain. Depending on the affected part of the brain, encephalitis can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild flu-like symptoms to more severe ones such as mental confusion and seizures. Encephalitis must be urgently diagnosed and treated. Your doctor will ask you about your vaccinations, recent respiratory or gastrointestinal illness, and a possible tick bite. Your doctor may recommend brain imaging (MRI or CT scan), spinal tap, blood and urine tests, and electroencephalogram (EEG).

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have encephalitis. Encephalitis is a medical term that describes inflammation of the brain. The inflammation and swelling of the brain cause changes in neurological function, leading to mental confusion and seizures. The symptoms of encephalitis may be similar to other illnesses, so always see a doctor for a diagnosis. A person with encephalitis must be hospitalized. The treatment goal is to reduce the swelling of the brain and to prevent possible complications. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of encephalitis and may involve antiviral medications, antibiotics, immunotherapy and medications to control seizures.