|  | Conditions Treatments | Herpes

Herpes Encephalitis Aftereffects

Herpes encephalitis is caused by the herpes virus. Its symptoms are very similar to the symptoms of other conditions such as meningitis and epilepsy. Herpes encephalitis causes infection in the brain and central nervous system, and can be life-threatening.

  1. Symptoms

    • Symptoms of herpes encephalitis include aches, fever, memory problems, disorientation, confusion, seizures and hallucinations. In some cases, symptoms progress to coma.

    Recovery

    • Recovery from herpes encephalitis can take a long time, especially if the problems caused by the infection include weakness on one side and speech problems.

    Long-Term Aftereffects

    • Recovery from herpes encephalitis can be lengthy, and the aftereffects can be similar to those of a stroke if the infection occurred in the part of the brain that controls thinking and moving. Speech problems, weakness on one side, or difficulty in attaining balance are problems the patient may continue to encounter for some time, or perhaps forever.

    Prognosis for Infants

    • Recovery from herpes encephalitis is more difficult for newborns. Infants who survive the infection will likely have brain or nervous system damage.

    Prevention/Solution

    • A way to prevent herpes encephalitis has not been discovered, but preventing the herpes virus that causes it is possible. Techniques to prevent herpes include frequent hand washing and avoiding contact with active herpes infections, such as cold sores or blisters.

Herpes - Related Articles