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Encephalitis
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain itself, usually from a viral infection or, sometimes, the immune system. It is a serious condition that can cause confusion, seizures and needs urgent care.
Causes & risk factors
- Viral infections (a common cause)
- The immune system attacking the brain (autoimmune encephalitis)
- Spread from other infections
- Being unvaccinated against certain viruses
- Weakened immune system
Common symptoms
- Fever
- Headache
- Confusion or altered behaviour
- Seizures
- Drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Weakness or speech problems
Tests & diagnosis
- MRI brain
- Lumbar puncture (spinal fluid)
- EEG
- Blood tests
- CT scan
Treatment & management
- Emergency hospital admission
- Antiviral medicine started urgently if a virus is suspected
- Immune treatments for autoimmune encephalitis
- Controlling seizures and supporting breathing if needed
- Rehabilitation during recovery
When to see a doctor urgently
- Fever with confusion, unusual behaviour, seizures or difficulty waking — call your local emergency number now
- A severe headache with drowsiness or weakness — call your local emergency number now
- Sudden personality or memory changes with illness
- A first seizure with fever
Frequently asked questions
How is encephalitis different from meningitis?
Meningitis inflames the linings around the brain, while encephalitis inflames the brain itself, which is why confusion, behaviour change and seizures are prominent. Both are emergencies and can overlap.
Can people recover fully?
Outcomes vary. Prompt treatment improves the chance of recovery, but some people have lasting effects on memory, thinking or movement and benefit from rehabilitation.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.