Encephalitis, in general, is an inflammation of the brain. Viral encephalitis refers to brain inflammation resulting from a viral infection. Viral encephalitis is rare, but when it does occur it can be serious and life-threatening. In its primary stages, viral encephalitis only affects the brain. In its secondary stages, viral encephalitis affects the body and the brain.
Neurological Symptoms
Because encephalitis affects the brain, neurological symptoms are quite common. Some patients experience seizures or tremors. They can range from mild to severe, and should you experience either you should notify your doctor right away. Milder neurological symptoms include loss of consciousness and sensitivity to light.
Mood and Emotional Symptoms
When areas of the brain that control moods or emotions become damaged, changes in mood or emotions will occur. Some patients who have viral encephalitis can become easily irritable or agitated. Patients sometimes become confused about familiar settings, people or situations. Frequent changes in temper or poor temper control can occur as well as changes in personality or general temperament. In severe cases, hallucinations or delusions may occur. Some encephalitis patients experience a flat mood or exhibit an inappropriate mood for the situation at hand.
General Symptoms
Less severe, but the most common, are symptoms that affect a patient's general state. These symptoms begin as being subtle yet can become more severe as the virus increases in severity. Common symptoms include confusion, lethargy, exhaustion, fatigue or drowsiness. Some patients experience flu-like symptoms such as headache or fever, which are caused by the inflammation of the brain. As symptoms progress, you may notice an unsteady gait or difficulty in maintaining balance. At their most extreme, these symptoms can turn into stupors and even a coma. As energy levels and alertness decreases, you may notice diminished interest in daily activities.
Joint, Muscle and Skin Symptoms
Encephalitis has been known to cause joint stiffness or joint pain, specifically in the neck and back, an indication of inflammation of the spinal cord. You may experience associated muscle weakness. Changes to or loss of sensation is common and can graduate to partial paralysis. As the virus spreads, you may develop a rash at or near the site of infection.
