Encephalitis

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain tissue, often caused by viral infections, though it can also have an autoimmune origin. Because it directly affects the brain, it can alter neurological function in various ways.

Common symptoms:

• Fever and severe headache
• Confusion, drowsiness, or changes in behavior
• Seizures or weakness in some part of the body

When should you see a doctor? If fever is accompanied by confusion, a stiff neck, or seizures, you should seek care without delay, since it is considered an emergency.

Which specialist treats it? It usually requires a joint approach between the neurologist and the infectious disease specialist, with support from the internist or, in children, the pediatrician and pediatric neurologist; in some cases the neurosurgeon is involved. If you notice these signs in yourself or a family member, the most sensible thing is to place it in the hands of a professional as soon as possible.