Treatment of Encephalitis

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The best chance for a complete recovery is for treatment to be given before you lapse into a coma. If you are experiencing symptoms and are suspected of having encephalitis, then you will be admitted to hospital.

The antiviral drug Acyclovir is used for viral encephalitis caused by the herpes-simplex virus. Acyclovir is given almost immediately if encephalitis is suspected as there are few side effects.

The drug is injected into the vein and if given early enough, it can reduce further complications. Acyclovir has drastically improved the outlook in cases of herpes simplex encephalitis but is not as effective against other viruses.

Drugs which stop or prevent seizures (anti-convulsants) may also be given if necessary, In severe cases, you may need to be put in intensive care so that the doctors can monitor and treat any swelling in the brain.

Corticosteroids may be given to reduce inflammation of the brain as well as antibiotics to prevent or treat further bacterial infections, resulting from being seriously ill.

Post infectious (autoimmune) types of Encephalitis are usually treated with steroids.