Serious Illnesses You Can Get From Mosquito Bites

Types of Encephalitis

Encephalitis is a condition that produces inflammation in the brain, and most cases are caused by a virus. Patients with this illness typically have mild symptoms similar to the flu, but the condition may sometimes be more severe and potentially life-threatening. The two major types of encephalitis are primary encephalitis and secondary encephalitis. Sub-varieties causes by infected mosquitos include Eastern Equine, Japanese, LaCrosse, and St. Louis encephalitis.

Primary encephalitis occurs when the brain is directly infected, and secondary encephalitis develops when the immune system overreacts to an existing infection by attacking healthy brain cells as well as the infected area. Secondary encephalitis may start two to three weeks after the initial infection. Individuals with this condition might experience fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, and fever, and they could develop seizures, confusion, speech difficulties, or loss of consciousness in more severe cases. To diagnose encephalitis, doctors use MRI or CT scans, and patients may need to have a lumbar puncture, an electroencephalogram, and blood or urine tests. In rare cases, a brain biopsy might be necessary.

Treatment for mild encephalitis normally consists of bed rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers to ease fever and headache. Patients might need to take antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, foscarnet, or ganciclovir. Individuals who have severe encephalitis generally need treatment in an intensive care unit, and they are often given intravenous fluids, anticonvulsants, and anti-inflammatory medications. These patients may also need breathing support through supplemental oxygen or ventilation, and they will be placed on monitors that check their cardiac function and respiration. Physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy are recommended for patients who experience long-term complications from encephalitis, and some individuals may also wish to have counseling.

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