Encephalitis (Brain Inflammation): Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Encephalitis, also known as brain inflammation, is a condition in which viruses and bacteria infect the central nervous system, causing deterioration or loss of brain function. So what is encephalitis (brain inflammation) and why does it happen?
Encephalitis, also called brain inflammation or infection, is a serious illness that can result in a person's death. The cause of this disease, which poses a risk to people of all age groups, is mostly viruses. Depending on this situation, the weakening of the immune system and the decrease in hygiene can be a factor in the emergence of the disease.
Children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised are the most vulnerable risk groups for encephalitis. It is possible to prevent the symptoms of the disease, which are seen with different symptoms, with drug treatments and different methods.
Timely diagnosis and treatment is important as the effect of brain inflammation will differ from person to person.
What Causes Encephalitis (Brain Inflammation)?
Brain inflammation can develop due to many reasons, it will not be possible to attribute this situation to a definite cause.
The main viral diseases known as bacterial and parasitic diseases, encephalitis, most commonly Herpes virus, mumps, measles, polio, chicken pox and viruses causing hepatitis, and HIV, HPV and rabies viruses are also viruses that cause encephalitis. is an inflammation of the brain. is defined as.
The presence of wounds, cuts to the skin, being bitten by a wild animal or by a cat or dog are among the obvious risk factors.
Malnutrition, poor hygiene conditions, weak immune system, unvaccinated or under-vaccinated can cause encephalitis.
What are the Symptoms of Encephalitis (Brain Inflammation)?
Encephalitis symptoms are often sudden and severe. People with viral encephalitis often show flu-like symptoms.
Symptoms of encephalitis are usually fever, headache, pain in muscles and joints, fatigue and fatigue. However, in some people the symptoms may be more severe and present with symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, seizures, numbness or paralysis, sensitivity to light, irritability, muscle weakness, speech, hearing problems, loss of consciousness, and even coma.
Symptoms of encephalitis in infants; swelling in the soft areas of the skull, nausea and vomiting, body stiffness, malnutrition, irritability, aggression.
Encephalitis (Brain Inflammation) Treatment
After the diagnosis is confirmed, an effective and sufficient amount of intravenous antiviral drug should be given quickly. In addition, necessary medications are given for vomiting, fever and headache with the physician's foresight.
Apart from medications, plenty of fluid consumption, good nutrition, bed rest and hygiene rules should be observed.