Viral encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain that is caused by one of several different types of viruses. The herpes simplex 1 virus, which is also responsible for producing cold sores, can lead to a type of viral encephalitis called herpes simplex encephalitis. Run-of-the-mill childhood diseases such as mumps, rubella, measles and chicken pox, all viral illnesses, can sometimes progress into encephalitis. Insects such as mosquitoes and ticks may also spread encephalitis to people. This type of viral illness can be fatal if not treated immediately with anti-viral medications, though permanent brain damage can result even with appropriate treatment. Recognizing the symptoms of this potentially devastating disease leads to swift diagnosis and treatment.
Head and Neck Pain
Experiencing a headache is one of the most common symptoms of viral encephalitis. Meningitis, an infection that occurs in the spinal fluid and the fluid that surrounds the brain, may come along with viral encephalitis in some people. In these cases, a severe headache along with a painful or stiff neck are signs of infection.
Fever
Fever is another common symptom of encephalitis that goes hand in hand with a headache. Over-the-counter medications may not be able to bring temperatures down for an extended amount of time. According to the Physician's Desk Reference online publication PDRHealth, viral encephalitis symptoms may linger for one to three weeks and fevers may either suddenly disappear or come and go throughout the course of the illness.
Photophobia
Sensitivity to light, called photophobia, is a sign of viral encephalitis. Light sensitivity may be one of the first symptoms or a person may gradually develop photophobia, depending on which virus has caused the illness. Photophobia as an encephalitis symptom sometimes occurs along with seizures.
Flu-like Symptoms
Viral encephalitis that is caused by an insect bite or a bite from a rabid animal may only produce flu-like symptoms at first. Muscle aches, extreme fatigue and low-grade fever may all be symptoms that gradually lead into the more serious signs, such as headache, nausea and sensitivity to light. Encephalitis that stems from rabies can incubate for one to two months before a person begins to feel symptoms.
Cognitive Difficulties
Symptoms of viral encephalitis can include a variety of cognitive impairments. Confusion, having trouble with word recall and speech in general, and memory loss are all common signs of the viral infection, especially when dealing with herpes simplex encephalitis. Some people who develop encephalitis slip in and out of different levels of consciousness.
