Viral encephalitis is a dangerous disease that can result in the death of a person if left untreated. In this case, there are various pathogens that can provoke it.
Causes of viral encephalitis
Acute inflammation of the brain can be caused by primary (direct action) and secondary (reaction to the penetration of the virus into the body) pathogens.
The main pathogens may be the following viruses:
- tick-borne ;
- Japanese;
- Herpes simplex;
- influenza;
- measles virus;
- varicella zoster virus.
Manifestation of the disease
If we talk about the symptoms of viral encephalitis, then the following are the main signs:
- a sharp increase in the patient's body temperature to 39 ° C;
- dizziness;
- obvious headache of not pronounced localization;
- general weakness of the whole body;
- nausea;
- vomiting;
- sleep disturbance;
- hallucinations and disorientation are possible.
It is worth noting that this disease in many cases begins as an ordinary flu and can be accompanied by a runny nose and sore throat. But, for example, herpetic viral encephalitis, transmitted by contact and by drip, can have manifestations in the form of convulsive seizures, as well as impaired consciousness.
Possible complications of the disease
Viral encephalitis has consequences that are possible with not timely or not quality treatment:
- memory impairment;
- speech impairment;
- decreased intelligence;
- personality change;
- neuroendocrine disorders;
- paralysis;
- hydrocephalus.
The most dangerous for untimely treatment is a lethal outcome, which ranges from 25% to 100% of cases.
Treatment of viral encephalitis
Any type of this disease is treated at the initial stage by the introduction of a large amount of fluid into the body. This helps to eliminate and reduce intoxication. Tick and Japanese encephalitis are treated
With purulent meningoencephalitis, which is a complication of primary infection, antibiotics are prescribed.
If there is a brain swelling, patients prescribed medications-corticosteroids .
Also in this disease, doctors use:
- analgesics;
- anticonvulsants.
At the stage of recovery after the main course of treatment, rehabilitation procedures are carried out. Excellent effect is provided by massages and physiotherapy exercises.