Viral encephalitis
is swelling of the brain that occurs because of a viral infection. In the United States, the condition is rather rare, occurring in only two out of every 1 million people, according to Healthline. Those who do contract the virus display a variety of symptoms.
Common Symptoms
The Physicians' Desk Reference reports that the most common symptoms of viral encephalitis are fever and headache. Lethargy is another common symptom.
Mild Symptoms
Other symptoms that occur more frequently include joint pain and irritability. In mild cases, the symptoms mimic those of influenza, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Severe Mental Symptoms
In more severe cases, patients sometimes develop mental symptoms, including confusion, hallucinations and personality change.
Severe Physical Symptoms
Double vision, seizures, muscle weakness, reduced sense of touch, paralysis, tremors, rashes and a complete loss of consciousness are among the physical symptoms of more severe viral encephalitis infections.
Children's Symptoms
An infant's soft spot or fontanels often bulges as a result of viral encephalitis. Body stiffness, vomiting and crying that cannot be soothed through normal consolation are other symptoms that present in children and babies.
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