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Causes of encephalitis

I have the same type of spinal headache that clemsontiger28 is describing. Mine came on about a month ago with no cause. I've had an MRI that was normal and a lumbar puncture that was normal, though my white blood cells are abnormal on three seperate occasions. They have never been abnormal before in my life. Could this be caused by my medication, Geodon? Has it ever happened that a chemical reaction takes place in the spinal fluid where the globulin cells decide to attach to a small protein which would cause the fluids to accumulate in the brain case and spinal column and they can't get out? Could this be causing encephalitis? This is just my theory but does it make any sense? Thanks.
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
How are you? Encephalitis or  inflammation of the brain is usually caused by infection, whether viral or bacterial in nature. Mild cases may present with flu-like symptoms while serious cases can cause severe headache, sudden fever, drowsiness, vomiting and confusion. Rest, plenty of fluids and a pain reliever may help. However, you may benefit from further evaluation by your doctor. Take care and do keep us posted.
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Very good points, will do. Sincerely, Denise
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MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi Denise,
It is good to hear from you again. Antihelminthics are usually effective in eradicating parasite infection. Tapeworms in the intestine usually cause no symptoms but may cause abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. And depending on where they are, larval cysts cause various symptoms. Stool examination and imaging studies may help present the worm segments or eggs. At this point try to avoid undercooked meat. Continue your medications to ease any anxiety also. Take care and best regards.
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Also, pleae note my natural remedies were effective, but I highly suspect they influenced the worm in my intestine to burrow his way out of my intestine into my lower abdomen and I never did find him. I don't know where he is right now.
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I just wanted to give you an update. I hope you're doing well too. I just got back from a 8 day stay at the hospital. The doctor gave me a three day treatment of Albendazole (200 mg per day) to kill the tapeworm infection. He never had any solid evidence of the worms, but treated me anyway because there was questionable evidence. I am so happy and relieved he treated me for worms. There was one worm biting me constantly on my neck for about 3 days and I think he did some internal damage to my neck. Now stomach acid comes up in my esophagus more than it used to. I'm just happy to still be alive. The worm that I suspect is still in my brain is in the process of dying and I have had some brain swelling, causing me to see patterns. The psychiatrist also increased my antipsychotic meds just in case and I seem to be doing fine. I'm so thankful I got some treatment in the hospital, now I still feel sick but much better than before. I hope you're having a great day too. Take care, thanks for your help.  
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I've decided to try some natural remedies for my illness, so I've started eating large quantities of Pumpkin seeds and fluids (along with regular food) and a digestive medication to try to rid myself of the tapeworm who I think is bothering me. I will let you know if I find him. I read that Pumpkin seeds can dislodge any kind of intestinal worms. I really hope it can. Thanks for your prayers and help. Your friend   Denise
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Hello, thanks for that info; I did not know it caused some of those symptoms. Your so kind to provide that info. Hopefully I get well soon. I'll let you know how it goes. God bless.  Denise
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MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,
Thanks for the update. Almost 70 % of tapeworm infection of the brain causes seizure. It can mimic brain tumor also. Neurocysticercosis is caused by a tapeworm found in pigs and may be obtained with  contamination from food, water or surfaces contaminated with feces. Other symptoms include gastrointestinal ones such as nausea, abdominal discomfort, etc. Continue with your health evaluation and just know that we will be here anytime you need us Take care always.
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Hello, thank you for asking. I just got back from the hospital, sorry it took me so long to get back to you. Supposedly the Ova and Parasite test came back normal but I am going to ask my doctor to run it again. I am 98% certain I have a tape worm(s) in my head! I can feel it crawling around, it's very disturbing. There is a very unique feeling you feel when a worm lives in your head and nothing can duplicate it. None of my doctors want to believe I actually have worms in my head, but I know I do. I think I am probably going to pass away from this, so I've gotten all of my business in order and said my prayers. If you don't hear from me you will know why. Thank you for thinking of me and your concern. I appreciate your prayers and well wishes. I'll continue to update you as I am able. God bless =)    Denise
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MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi Denise,
How are you? was the result of the Ova and parasite test? It is great to hear that the CT scan of the head was normal. Hang on and soon we will know the bottom of this. Best regards.
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Hi Dr. Santos - I just wanted to update you that I'm being tested for Ova and Parasites. The nurse sent the specimen to the lab last night. I'm hoping to get the results tomorrow. Unfortunately I have some symptoms of parasites. Luckily the CT of the head last night was normal and hopefully I'm getting well soon. Thank you for your concern. God bless,
Denise
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi Denise,
Good to hear that the EEG was normal and your headache is improving! I sincerely hope that this will resolve soon. Normal EEG is significant and this means that there are no problem with the brain's electrical activity. Will look forward to hear your updates. Take care always.
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Just for an update my EEG came back normal and sometimes I feel my headache improving. Usually my head hurts but in the last day or two it didn't hurt quite as bad. I'll keep updating my progress. Your friend   Denise
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Avatar universal
Thank you. I have continued taking Geodon because of my doctors recommendations and there is no evidence that Geodon is causing my illness. My appointment is next Wednesday so I'll let you know what he says. I'll keep posting my progress. Hopefully getting better soon,    Denise
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Avatar universal
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi Denise,
Thank you for your update. With regards to Ziprasidone or Geodon, some side effects include loss of focus and motivation and blurry vision, and not necessarily severe headaches. Do keep us posted with your doctor's appointment.Take care always.
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Thank you much for that information. I do have an appointment scheduled and I'm also going to make an appt to an ENT doctor too. I will keep you posted on my progress. God bless,

Denise
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