Encephalitis

[babyblue1972]

My sister has recently been discharged from hospital after three weeks.  She had viral encephalitis, but not the herpes simplex virus.  They could not determine the type of virus, but the fact that it responded well to antiviral drugs confirmed that it was of the viral variety.  

She suffered two seizures, both provoked.  One was in relation to the discontinuation of the viral drug and the other due to to the anti-seizure medication that in turned out she is allergic to.  

First, In terms of the seizures, will those happen again? She is currently on anti-seizure medication.

Secondly, Encephalitis is a destructive disease and I can feel the terrible psycological toll it is taking on her.  She sufferes from muscle weakness and constant rashes.

Can anyone advise on how to deal with a recovering encephalitis patient? It is amazing how little information there is out there about the disease and the post encephalitic stage.

Thank you

[mk2009]

I am a pediatrician and my husband recently had viral encephalitis which was not confirmed with a particular virus.  But to answer your question, seizures post-encephalitis are common however, it depends on the site of injury in the brain.  Anti-epileptics are usually weaned after 1-2 years however, if more seizures occur, this would be an indication to continue the medication.

Further, I would suggest finding a local neuro-rehab specialist who would be the best to help with the devastating psychological effects and perhaps linking you with others who have been affected by this disease.
I found several websites which were helpful including encephalitis.org and encephalitisglobal.org.

It has been 9 months since my husbands illness.  His initial recovery was slow and has picked up a bit over the last few months.  But every day is a challenge with memory and particularly with coming to terms with some of his other deficits.  When dealing with anyone who has had a brain injury, patience is the key.  But above all, please find a group whether it be in person or on-line who can help you and your sister through this next phase of life.