About Encephalitis
Key Highlights
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Expert diagnosis by a brain and nervous system specialist (neurologist).Utilization of advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and lumbar puncture for accurate assessment.Critical for determining the specific cause (viral, autoimmune, etc.) to guide targeted treatment.Early intervention can help prevent severe, long-term neurological damage and complications.Comprehensive management plan that may include medication, rehabilitation, and supportive care.
Who is this surgery for?
- Sudden onset of high fever, severe headache, and confusion or altered mental state.
- Neurological symptoms such as seizures, weakness, or difficulty speaking.
- Sensitivity to light (photophobia), stiff neck, or nausea and vomiting.
- Personality or behavioral changes, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.
- Suspicion following exposure to viruses (e.g., herpes simplex, West Nile) or in areas with endemic infections.
- Signs of brain inflammation detected on a preliminary scan or following other infections.
How to prepare
- Be prepared to provide a complete medical history, including recent illnesses, travel, and vaccinations.
- List all current medications, supplements, and any known allergies.
- Wear comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to accompany you, as procedures or tests may cause drowsiness.
- For specific tests like an MRI, inform staff of any metal implants or claustrophobia.
- Follow fasting instructions if a lumbar puncture or other specific test is scheduled.
- Be ready to discuss all symptoms in detail, including their onset and progression.
Risks & possible complications
- Risks are primarily associated with the underlying condition and diagnostic procedures, not the consultation itself.
- Lumbar puncture can cause headache, back discomfort, bleeding, or infection at the site.
- Potential for misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis leading to progression of brain inflammation.
- Long-term risks of untreated encephalitis include memory problems, persistent fatigue, personality changes, epilepsy, and physical disabilities.
- Reactions to medications used in treatment (e.g., antivirals, immunosuppressants).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Recovery depends heavily on the cause, severity, and promptness of treatment. It can be a lengthy process.
- Initial hospital stay is often required for monitoring, intravenous medications, and supportive care.
- Post-discharge, rest is crucial. Fatigue is very common and may last for months.
- Neurological rehabilitation (physical, occupational, speech therapy) is often necessary to regain lost functions.
- Regular follow-up appointments with the neurologist are essential to monitor progress and manage any lasting effects.
- Medication regimens must be followed precisely as prescribed.
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Typical hospital stay: 7-21 days
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Expected recovery time: Several weeks to months, potentially longer for full rehabilitation
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering encephalitis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for encephalitis in India include KMC Hospital Mangalore, Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Manipal Hospital Jayanagar, Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform encephalitis. MediFyr helps you compare neurologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for encephalitis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 50 Thousand – 300 Thousand | 7-21 days | ~ Several weeks to months, potentially longer for full rehabilitation | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 175 Thousand – 1.05 Million | 7-21 days | ~ Several weeks to months, potentially longer for full rehabilitation | Know More |
Top hospitals for Encephalitis in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated neurology teams and experience managing patients undergoing encephalitis.
Karan Singh, a 58-year-old retired school...
Karan Singh, a 58-year-old retired school principal, was an active community volunteer. He began experiencing severe headaches, confusion, and a high fever that wouldn't break. His family noticed he was having trouble finding words and became unusually withdrawn. After a seizure at home, he was rushed to the emergency department. A neurologist, suspecting encephalitis, recommended an urgent lumbar puncture and MRI to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cause. The procedures were frightening for Karan, who felt vulnerable and scared by his own mental fog. He was diagnosed with viral encephalitis and started on intravenous antiviral medications and steroids in the ICU. His recovery in the hospital was slow; the confusion lifted gradually over two weeks, but he was left with significant fatigue and mild short-term memory issues. Emotionally, Karan grappled with fear and frustration during his illness, feeling like he'd lost himself. Afterward, though grateful to be alive, he felt a profound sense of loss for his former sharpness. With support from his family and cognitive therapy, he learned to adapt, finding new patience and a deeper appreciation for small daily victories in his recovery journey.
Neurologists for Encephalitis
Explore experienced neurologists who regularly perform encephalitis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 18 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 46 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Neurologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai
- 13 Years Experience
- Neurologist
SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai
- 19 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 26 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 8 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, vijayawada
- 9 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 5 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, vijayawada
- 3 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 32 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 11 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 7 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Kamineni Hospital LB Nagar, Hyderabad
- 8 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 32 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 19 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 14 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- Neurologist
Metro Hospital, Sector 11, Noida