Encephalitis Treatment in Lansdowne, VA
When the brain experiences swelling and inflammation as the result of a virus, it is known as encephalitis. This condition can be deadly if not addressed and treated when symptoms begin to appear.
Dr. Seth Tuwiner provides comprehensive testing and treatment for encephalitis at his office in Leesburg, VA. Learn more about your treatment options and call the Virginia Center for Neuroscience today at (703) 293-5244.
What Causes Encephalitis?
This disease can affect the brain in one of two ways. Either the infection is the result of a faulty immune system, or it can directly infect the brain. Such an infection typically correlates to some sort of insect bite, but can also be shared through contact with other creatures like birds or even humans.
These common causes include:
- Mosquito-borne viruses
- Tick-borne viruses
- Enteroviruses
- Rabies virus
- HSV type 1 and 2
- Measles
- Mumps
- Rubella
What Are Common Signs of Encephalitis?
Encephalitis is somewhat rare, though it most often occurs in children, the elderly, and people with a compromised immune system. Those who are infected with encephalitis are likely to experience the following symptoms as a result of the disease:
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Nausea
If a case of encephalitis worsens, it is likely that individuals will notice more severe symptoms, such as:
- Hallucinations
- Increased irritability
- Paralysis or stiffness of the body
- A rising fever
- Seizures
- Difficulty speaking or hearing
- Fainting
What Are My Treatment Options?
If you begin to notice any preliminary symptoms of encephalitis, please consult your physician immediately. Many of the early signs of this disease are similar to that of the flu, which you should also see a medical professional about. If your condition starts to worsen, or you notice any severe symptoms associated with encephalitis, please seek emergent care.
Encephalitis can be treated rather easily using antiviral medications, rest, hydrating fluids, and anti-inflammatories. Each patient’s course of treatment will need to be determined and administered by a specialist in order to ensure that it provides the best possible benefit to them and their health. Follow-up care may be necessary if any complications are encountered as a result of an individual’s infection.
Schedule an Appointment at Our Office in Northern VA
To seek treatment for encephalitis, or to learn more about this concerning disease, please contact Virginia Center for Neuroscience today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tuwiner. Call (703) 293-5244 to schedule an appointment today.