After-effects of encephalitis

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on November 12, 2024
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Some more serious types of encephalitis may leave sequelae. For example, common ones like herpes simplex viral encephalitis and epidemic encephalitis B. A minority of patients may suffer from certain degrees of sequelae, which typically include the following aspects. Firstly, some patients may experience secondary epileptic seizures, which present with loss of consciousness, limb convulsions, incontinence, and frothing at the mouth. These symptoms might require long-term oral medication for epilepsy. Secondly, another consequence of encephalitis is cognitive impairment in patients, characterized by significant reductions in computational ability, memory, and executive function. Additionally, some forms of encephalitis might leave patients with psychiatric symptoms, such as speaking incoherently.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Is encephalitis hereditary?

Encephalitis is mostly caused by viral infections. For instance, Epidemic B encephalitis is caused by the B encephalitis virus, and herpes simplex encephalitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Therefore, encephalitis is not related to genetic mutations and is not hereditary, so there is no need for special concern. It is important to note that some cases of encephalitis are not directly related to viral infections and may be related to autoimmune responses. For example, autoimmune encephalitis can occur in patients experiencing immune system disorder, which may be accompanied by some tumors. A disordered immune system can produce antibodies that attack one's own brain tissue, leading to autoimmune encephalitis. This type of encephalitis also has no genetic tendencies.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Does encephalitis cause fever?

If the patient's encephalitis is caused by a viral infection, they usually exhibit fever, often a high fever with temperatures reaching above 39°C, accompanied by significant symptoms such as headache, nausea, and vomiting. Some patients may also experience cognitive dysfunction, epileptic seizures, and psychiatric symptoms. Therefore, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly, complete examinations such as electroencephalography, lumbar puncture, and cranial magnetic resonance imaging, and timely apply effective antiviral medications. It should be noted that some encephalitis is caused by autoimmune reactions, referred to as autoimmune encephalitis, which is relatively rare clinically. This type of encephalitis generally does not present with fever. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Does encephalitis cause a runny nose?

Encephalitis can potentially cause a runny nose, as it is mainly caused by viral infections. These infections not only invade brain cells, leading to symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and even seizures related to the nervous system, but can also affect the respiratory tract. If these viruses accumulate in the respiratory tract, particularly in the nasal mucosa, they will definitely cause symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, expectoration, and sore throat. Therefore, it is evident that patients with encephalitis can exhibit symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. Moreover, some patients initially present with respiratory symptoms, such as a runny nose, before the viruses enter and infect the brain cells. Patients with encephalitis must receive timely treatment, primarily symptomatic treatment to prevent complications, along with antiviral medication for targeted treatment. Most patients have a good prognosis.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Symptoms of encephalitis vomiting

Patients with encephalitis often experience vomiting, and some even have projectile vomiting. This is mainly because patients with encephalitis experience a significant increase in intracranial pressure, which leads to severe vomiting. Additionally, patients may also have noticeable fever, headaches, and can display swelling of the optic disc. In such cases, it is necessary to promptly administer sufficient antiviral medications to the patient, as well as some medications to dehydrate and reduce intracranial pressure. If necessary, corticosteroids can also be used as an adjunct treatment. With aggressive treatment, some patients do recover well. (Please administer medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Encephalitis MRI manifestations

Encephalitis, commonly referred to, is generally viral encephalitis. Herpes simplex viral encephalitis, a type of viral encephalitis, typically shows distinct manifestations in brain MRI scans. For instance, the patient's MRI may reveal high T2 signals in several areas of the cerebral cortex, particularly in the frontal and temporal lobes, and the hippocampus. If there are subsequent hemorrhagic changes, high signals will also appear on T1-weighted images. Additionally, the MRI of encephalitis may display diffusion-weighted imaging with unusually bright signals, and these signals do not follow a vascular distribution, which strongly suggests encephalitis. Patients with encephalitis generally exhibit significant symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, they may also experience limb paralysis, psychiatric symptoms, and complications like epilepsy.