Herpes of the Brain - Herpes simplex encephalitis
Except for noted sources, by Ask a Healer
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Oral Herpes Information
Herpes of the brain is called herpes simplex encelpalitis and is a very serious health disorder. HSE is caused by HSV-2 and is asscoiated with repeated outbreaks of genital herpes. HSE causes inflammation of the brain and can affect people of any age although typically it will appear in the person who already has genital herpes and who has had repeated outbreaks.
Other names for HSE form of herpes include Herpetic Brainstem Encephalitis and Herpetic Meningoencephalitis
Brain herpes infections may go undiagnosed for years because so many of the symptoms of HSE are also symptoms of a broad range of health conditions. Common symptoms of a brain herpes infection include fevers and headaches, flu-like symptoms lasting one to two weeks, frequent unexplained drowsiness, periods of hyperactivity, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to bright light and a general feeling of weakness in the body. Other symptoms mimic the condition of meningitis, such as mental confusion and a stiff neck. Normally, the blisters that can accompany other forms of herpes including shingles, are not present with HSE.
More serious symptoms that can occur in severe cases of herpes simplex encelpalitis include seizures, memory loss, uncharacteristic and bizarre behaviors, loss of ability to speak or speak clearly, double vision and even coma.
Though there are other causes of encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, herpes simplex virus continues to be the most prevelant cause. Other causes include tick bites, mosquito bites, bacteria and fungal infections.
Medical testing that can help identify brain inflammation include Computed tomography, Magnetic resonance imaging and the Electroencephalography, or EEG test.
After a Diagnosis of HSE:
The standard medical treatment for HSE is acyclovir, started intravenously and given for 10 days.
The herbal approach to HSE is designed to:
* Control infection and slow disease progression
* Improve symptoms Correct imbalance
* adjust immune system Prevent
*reat later disease and/or complications
* Reduce mortality rate
* Improve the prognosis
* Restore normal function
The purpose of herbal treatment for HSE is not to take the place of any needed medical treatment or evaluation. A carefully thought-out regimen which combines medical and herbal treatment is considered best. Source: Information on herbal treatment is courtesy of HerbChina2000
Because some of the symptoms of this form of the herpes virus are also symptoms of brain tumors, it's important to get a proper and thorough diagnosis. Please review the information on Brain Tumor Symptoms and have your doctor rule out this or other health conditions that might be causing your symptoms.
See your doctor immediately if your symptoms include:
* Vomiting
* Arm and Leg Weakness
* Blurred or abnormal vision
* Stroke-like symptoms
* Seizures
Health Disclaimer: Brain herpes is a serious condition and may even be life-threatening. It is vital to get the proper medical testing and evaluation. None of the information on this page should be construed as any type of replacement for medical advice.
