BRAIN INFECTION

BRAIN INFECTION

Encephalitis (en-sef-uh-LIE-tis) is inflammation of the brain. There are several causes, but the most common is a viral infection. Encephalitis often causes only mild flu-like signs and symptoms, such as a fever or headache, or no symptoms at all. Sometimes the flu-like symptoms are more severe.

Symptoms of a brain abscess
headache,which is often severe and located in a single section of the head and cannot be relieved with painkillers.
changes in mental state, such as confusion or irritability.
problems with nerve function, such as muscle weakness, slurred speech or paralysis on one side of the body.

Brain infections, also known as encephalitis, are conditions that occur when an infection spreads to the brain. They can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungus, or parasites, and can be life-threatening or cause long-term complications.

The most common cause of encephalitis is a virus, such as herpes simplex viruses, which cause cold sores, or the varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles. Other viruses that can cause encephalitis include measles, mumps, rubella, tick-borne encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, rabies, and possibly Zika virus. Encephalitis can also be caused by an autoimmune reaction that affects the brain, where antibodies attack brain cells. This is called autoimmune encephalitis and can be triggered by a virus or vaccine, tumors, or be primary.

Symptoms of encephalitis include:

headache, fever, confusion, stiff neck, vomiting, seizures, hallucinations, trouble speaking, memory problems, and problems with hearing.

Treatment for encephalitis varies, but most people require hospitalization so they can receive intensive treatment, including life support. The prognosis for a brain infection depends on the severity of the condition, what caused the infection, and how fast treatment was initiated. Most people who experience a brain infection make a full recovery, but long-term recovery may require physical therapy, occupational therapy, or psychotherapy

Treatment

In cases of mild folliculitis, treatment may not be necessary and the condition will clear up on its own. Treatment options may include:

• Topical antiseptics such as benzoyl peroxide or hypochlorite may be used to help slow the growth of bacteria or other organisms on the skin that are causing the infection.

• Topical antibiotics such as clindamycin or mupirocin may be needed to help with the overgrowth of bacteria. Antibiotics may also be used with medical drainage of boils if they have developed. Medical drainage involves having the boils drained by a healthcare provider.

• Oral antibiotics may be used if the condition has progressed and if you have other symptoms such as fever. Systemic antibiotics are taken orally and could include dicloxacillin and cefadroxil.

• Mild topical steroid lotions or creams may help with the itchiness.

• Oral antihistamines may also help with itchiness.