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Disclaimer Though much of the material on this site has been written by neurologists and other health professionals, the Encephalitis Society is a registered charity and not medically qualified as such. The information on these pages is for general educational purposes only and should not be regarded as advice on the diagnosis or treatment of either encephalitis or any other medical condition. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, the Encephalitis Society can neither be held responsible for such information nor for any information on linked sites. The information provided on this site is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a person affected and his/her existing doctor. |
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What is Encephalitis?
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. The inflammation is caused either by an infection invading the brain (infectious); or through the immune system attacking the brain in error (post-infectious / autoimmune encephalitis).
Encephalitis is different from meningitis. Meningitis means inflammation of the protective layers that cover the brain. Sometimes patients have both meningitis and encephalitis and this is called meningoencephalitis.
Symptoms
The types of symptoms seen in encephalitis may reflect the specific areas of the brain affected by inflammation. This range of possible symptoms and their rate of development vary widely and this can make the diagnosis of encephalitis difficult.
Encephalitis frequently begins with a ‘flu-like illness or headache. Typically more serious symptoms follow hours to days later. The most serious finding is an alteration in level of consciousness. This can range from mild confusion or drowsiness, to loss of consciousness and coma.
Other symptoms include a high temperature, seizures (fits), aversion to bright lights, inability to speak or control movement, sensory changes, neck stiffness, or uncharacteristic behaviour.
Some people may also experience hallucinations and vivid nightmares during the acute period of the encephalitis. These can be very distressing for the person concerned and the family who may witness their fear and terror. This phase usually ceases as the inflammation and swelling of the brain subsides.
Last modified: 8 April 2008
