Want the facts on encephalitis and meningitis?

We asked the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes for some answers to our questions

We know: Facts on Encephalitis and Meningitis

What are encephalitis and meningitis?

Encephalitis and meningitis are inflammatory diseases of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord and are caused by bacterial or viral infections. Viral meningitis is sometimes called aseptic meningitis to indicate it is not the result of bacterial infection and cannot be treated with antibiotics.

What are the symptoms of encephalitis?

Symptoms include:

sudden fever
headache
vomiting
heightened sensitivity to light
stiff neck and back
confusion and impaired judgment
drowsiness
weak muscles
a clumsy and unsteady gait
irritability

Symptoms that might require emergency treatment include loss of consciousness, seizures, muscle weakness, or sudden severe dementia.

Symptoms of meningitis:

Symptoms of meningitis, which may appear suddenly, often include:

high fever
severe and persistent headache
stiff neck
nausea
vomiting

Changes in behavior such as confusion, sleepiness, and difficulty waking up may also occur. In infants, symptoms of meningitis may include irritability or fatigue, lack of appetite, and fever.

Viral meningitis usually resolves in 10 days or less, but other types of meningitis can be deadly if not treated promptly.

What should I do if I experience symptoms of encephalitis or meningitis?

See a doctor immediately.

Is there any treatment for encephalitis and meningitis?

Treatment possibilities include:

Antiviral medications may be prescribed for herpes encephalitis or other severe viral infections. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections.

Anticonvulsants are used to prevent or treat seizures.

Corticosteroids 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.

Individuals with encephalitis or bacterial meningitis are usually hospitalized for treatment.

What is the prognosis?

Encephalitis: The prognosis for encephalitis varies. Some cases are mild, short and relatively benign and patients have full recovery. Other cases are severe, and permanent impairment or death is possible. The acute phase of encephalitis may last for 1 to 2 weeks, with gradual or sudden resolution of fever and neurological symptoms. Neurological symptoms may require many months before full recovery.

Meningitis: With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, most patients recover from meningitis. However, in some cases, the disease progresses so rapidly that death occurs during the first 48 hours, despite early treatment.

If you have any of the symptoms listed above it is best to see a doctor as soon as possible.