Encephalitis

Q. What is Encephalitis?
A. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain caused by infection (usually viral) or by autoimmune disease. It can affect children and adults alike and the results can either be fatal in serious cases or leave the person with an acquired brain injury, the severity of which varies greatly. The resultant difficulties may include cognitive, physical, emotional or behavioural problems.

Q. How do we get a clear diagnosis of the condition?
A. Diagnosis can be a challenge as symptoms alone often do not allow a doctor to distinguish between the many diseases that can mimic encephalitis and therefore a variety of hospital tests are required. Once encephalitis is suspected it is essential to start treatment straight away to lessen the damage to the brain during the acute phase (when the brain is inflamed). While in hospital it is important that carers communicate with medical professionals and express any concerns.

Q. What should be done when someone with Encephalitis is discharged from hospital?
A. Once your relative has been assessed as being medically fit for discharge from hospital you should expect an inter-disciplinary discharge meeting to be called where you should be given:
•    Clear information about your relative's condition and the likely long-term effects.
•    Full information about what services your relative may need to access and how to do   this including neurology assessments, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, day care and respite care.
•    A care plan detailing how your relative wants to be supported with the problems they have on discharge, including what community services will be offered.
•    The contact details of a named person who can offer support after discharge, as the long term problems may not be immediately evident.
•    The GP will be sent a discharge summary.

Q. What support is available once at home?
A. The long term effects of encephalitis vary according to the cause, the severity of the inflammation, the parts of the brain affected, and any delay in treatment. Coming to terms with resulting problems can be very distressing and challenging for everyone concerned. The person you knew may have changed and the person they have become may present with a number of problems. It is important not to underestimate the time that the person and the whole family will need to adjust, in both practical and emotional terms, to their new situation. You and your relative need to keep in contact with the GP and/or discharge contact person and they should then signpost/refer you to appropriate services accordingly.