How to Recognize Symptoms of Encephalitis

The definition of encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. A virus usually causes encephalitis; however, it is not a common disease. It most seriously affects children, senior citizens, HIV/AIDS or cancer patients and others with compromised immune systems. Learn to recognize symptoms of encephalitis and avoid serious illness, especially in those more vulnerable and susceptible to the disease.

Instructions

1. Know that minor cases of encephalitis include slight symptoms, such as headache, fever and lack of appetite and energy. Major symptoms of encephalitis are a sign of danger and of severe illness.

2. Recognize symptoms of encephalitis that are more serious: a high fever and central nervous system warning signs including stiffness of the neck, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, disorientation/confusion, seizures, hallucinations and coma.

3. Pay special attention to certain symptoms associated with encephalitis in infants, such as a full or bulging soft spot, vomiting, nonstop crying or intensified crying, especially when the baby is touched or held, and body stiffness.

4. Know that encephalitis can manifest even with no apparent symptoms of a preceding virus. Realize encephalitis can be spread in various ways and is caused by a variety of germs.

5. Protect yourself and loved ones from ticks and especially mosquitoes, which can pass on viruses causing many forms of encephalitis, such as the West Nile Virus (Encephalitis), Western Equine Encephalitis and the St. Louis Encephalitis.

6. Check immediately with your doctor if you or a loved one begins experiencing any of the listed symptoms for encephalitis. Recognize that getting medical testing and a diagnosis right away, especially if symptoms show up in a child, an elderly person or a person with a lowered immune system, is the best way to prevent serious complications.