Encephalitis

Treatment:

The goals of treatment are to provide supportive care and relieve symptoms.

Antiviral medications may be prescribed for herpes encephalitis or other severe viral infections. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections. Anticonvulsants such a phenytoin are used to prevent or treat seizures. Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone are used to reduce brain swelling and inflammation. Sedatives may be needed for irritability or restlessness. Over-the-counter medications may be used for fever and headache.

Supportive care (rest, nutrition, fluids) allows the body to fight the infection. Reorientation and emotional support of confused/delirious persons may be helpful.

If brain function is severely affected, interventions such as physical therapy and speech therapy may be necessary after the acute illness is controlled.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Some cases are mild, short, and relatively benign with full recovery. Others are severe, and permanent impairment or death is possible.

The acute phase normally lasts for 1 to 2 weeks, with gradual or sudden resolution of fever and neurologic symptoms. Neurologic symptoms may require many months before full recovery.

Complications:

Permanent neurologic (such as memory, speech, vision, hearing, muscle control, and sensation) impairments can occur in people who survive severe cases of encephalitis.

Calling your health care provider:

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if sudden fever, neurologic changes, and other symptoms of encephalitis are present.