Monday, 6 July 2015

Candida, EBV, lyme disease, CFS or Adrenal fatigue

How hidden or stealth infections may be the cause of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Adrenal Fatigue Syndrome

When we look at some of the more common causes of Adrenal Fatigue we often think of prolonged stress, Sex Hormone Imbalances, dysglycemia, and finally inflammation as being the primary culprits.
However what if you have addressed these with your holistic physician and you continue to struggle with extreme lethargy, focus, concentrations, and muscle fatigue.
My best recommendation is to start looking at some of the other potential Adrenal stressors and that would include chronic infection. A common cause behind adrenal insufficiency often missed, is that of a chronic infection or stealth infection. Among the most common infections seen with adrenal fatigue syndrome are Epstein-Barr, Lyme, Candida and molds and these are ones that require testing.

Epstein-Barr Virus

As much as 95 percent of the general population may be infected by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) which belongs to the herpes family. In its acute infectious state it can be caught from bodily secretions including saliva and genital fluids.
This stealth virus uses DNA methylation to protect itself from the immune system and it stays in the resting memory B cells. Since these B cells change with the immune system, providing concealment to the pathogen, the EBV virus can easily proliferate undetected.

Symptoms of EBV

Among the symptoms of this virus are:

Mild fever
Sore throat
Swollen lymph nodes
Fatigue that can last from between a week to a month
Spleen enlargement
Jaundice

Testing For EBV

Healthcare providers can test for antibodies to the following EBV-associated antigens:

Viral capsid antigen (VCA)
- Anti-VCA IgM appears early in EBV infection and usually disappears within 4 to 6 weeks.
- Anti-VCA IgG appears in the acute phase of EBV infection, peaks at 2 to 4 weeks after onset, declines slightly then persists for the rest of a person’s life.
Early antigen (EA)
Anti-EA IgG appears in the acute phase of illness and generally falls to undetectable levels after 3 to 6 months. In many people, detection of antibody to EA is a sign of active infection. However, 20% of healthy people may have antibodies against EA for years.
EBV nuclear antigen (EBNA)
Antibody to EBNA, determined by the standard immunofluorescent test, is not seen in the acute phase of EBV infection but slowly appears 2 to 4 months after onset of symptoms and persists for the rest of a person’s life.

Interpretation of EBV Antibody Tests

EBV antibody tests are not usually needed to diagnose infectious mononucleosis. However, specific antibody tests may be needed to identify the cause of illness in people who do not have a typical case of infectious mononucleosis or have other illnesses that can be caused by EBV infection.
Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis generally resolve within 4-8 weeks but that doesn’t necessarily mean that a person is feeling energetic and full of spunk in 8 weeks. Many people will suffer a lifetime because of EB and other co-infections and in some cases this infection can further stress out the adrenal glands making Fatigue and brain fog unbearable.
The interpretation of EBV antibody tests requires familiarity with these tests as well as a good health history and background in the patients information.

Interpretation of EBV antibody tests and diagnosis of EBV infection is summarized as follows:

Susceptibility to infection People are considered susceptible to EBV infection if they do not have antibodies to the VCA.
Primary (new or recent) infection People are considered to have a primary EBV infection if they have anti-VCA IgM but do not have antibody to EBNA. Other results that strongly suggest a primary infection are a high or rising level of anti-VCA IgG and no antibody to EBNA after at least 4 weeks of illness. Resolution of the illness may occur before the diagnostic antibody levels appear. In rare cases, people with active EBV infections may not have detectable EBV-specific antibodies.
Past infection The presence of antibodies to both VCA and EBNA suggests past infection (from several months to years earlier). Since over 90% of adults have been infected with EBV, most adults will show antibodies to EBV from infection years earlier. High or elevated antibody levels may be present for years and are not diagnostic of recent infection.

Testing paired acute- and convalescent-phase serum samples is not useful to distinguish between recent and past EBV infections. In most cases, the antibody response occurs rapidly during primary EBV infection.
The clinical findings of infectious mononucleosis occur in conjunction with the appearance of IgG and IgM anti-VCA antibodies. However, the antibody pattern is not stable before symptoms appear.
Bed rest and reduced physical activity may also be recommended. Once this virus enters the body it never leaves, staying in a dormant state unless something activates it.
That is why this stealth infection has been linked with CFS, which is also a disease of the immune system. The EBV virus can become active when the immune system is compromised and this virus does not allow the immune system to recover. Adrenal fatigue syndrome and CFS are similar and when there is no other reason for chronic and long lasting fatigue, EBV may be a strong causative factor.

Lyme Disease

A vector borne disease, spread by ticks, spiders, mosquitos and other insects. Lyme disease is often caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi.
While most people only get alarmed when they see a bull’s eye rash found at the bite sight, You shouldn’t take the “lack” of a bulls eye rash lightly. If you suffer with chronic fatigue, brain fog, neurological problems, I recommend you get a comprehensive workup that will look at many potential co-infections.
What is Borrlia burgdorferi? Borrelia is a coil like bacteria (spirochete) and can move easily and embed itself in the muscles and tendons. It is also a stealth infection which means that it changes into a cell wall deficient form and so is difficult to detect.
Once the bacteria enters the body, if you are lucky, there is localized infection in the form of a rash after an incubation period of a few weeks.
Lab testing for this is only about 50 percent accurate. It may look like the bull’s eye at the rash site or it may not, but either way needs to be treated.

Symptoms and Treatment of Lyme disease

Some of the symptoms of Lyme disease are:

Rashes anywhere on the body
Muscle pain
Joint ache
Dizziness
Fatigue
Weakness
Arthritis
Short term memory loss
Cognitive problems
Shooting pain
Numbness in the extremities
Anxiety or panic attacks

If the disease is not treated, symptoms and health problems can intensify, particularly if the pathogens have entered the brain or nervous system. This is Neurological and sadly many neurologists don’t recognize this yet.
Conventionally Lyme disease is treated with a four week course of antibiotics. However, antibiotic treatment may not eradicate the bacteria completely – often some bacteria typically escape and continue to affect the patient via the stealth infection pathway.
As fatigue, brain fog lingers and pain lingers on, the patient may be wrongly diagnosed with fibromyalgia or other problems and not treated correctly since Lyme disease may escape diagnosis since it is a stealth infection.

Candida

Candida is virtually an omnipresent pathogen – yeast that changes into fungus when the conditions are right. More women than men are affected. While these infections are treatable, Candida often exists as a stealth infection.
Under certain circumstances, Candida can exists in the intestines, where it can be kept in check by a healthy immune system. As part of the gut bacteria, it can proliferate and cause problems due to antibiotic overuse, hormonal imbalance, physical or emotional stress, a diet high in sugar and starch, high alcohol intake or even excessive use of progesterone cream. Additionally the yeast can extend hyphae into the gut, produce alcohol and acetaldehyde from digested sugar and cause further problems. In some time, the alcohol produced will need extra energy and nutrients, thus having to provide extra energy and also increase the levels of toxins. In turn this manifests as fatigue, diarrhea, constipation, weakness and even difficulty concentrating.
When the person has an incipient Candida infection, he or she is more prone to allergies as well. Acetaldehyde is the reason for symptoms similar to that of a hangover, and with Candida the body is continuously producing something that causes these symptoms. When the body is in a state of stress and producing toxins, it is not a healthy state to be in.
Candida can be a difficult infection to get rid of because of the many causes behind its overgrowth and a lack of dietary compliance on behalf of the patient. Often made worse with standard medications and a diet high in sugar, alcohol, grains it is best to work with a holistic chiropractic physician. A holistic chiropractic physician will be able to zero in on the symptoms, rule out other causes and check the gut via a stool sample, and then be able to diagnose and offer treatment.
Whatever the stealth infection, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome needs a complete and comprehensive workup in the hands of a competent natural holistic physician.

Testing That should be considered If you suffer with Adrenal Fatigue or Chronic Infection.

Functional Stool Testing that evaluates the Micro flora in the gut, and inflammation
Pathogens in blood and stool samples.
Chemical stressors, physical stressors and inflammation that play a contributory role in adrenal fatigue syndrome.
Food intolerances, allergies and sensitivities as certain foods may not be immunologically incompatible with your body and aggravate inflammation and stress.
Investigating intestinal permeability in the gut that checks proteins that are part of the structural integrity of the intestinal tract.
Nutritional deficiencies causes by improper diet
Heavy Metals- can be a common culprit if you notice problems with Brain Fog, Depression, Anxiety, Migraines, or any other neurological symptom.

Adrenal fatigue syndrome has complex causes including chemical, environmental and heavy metal toxins. While a simple salivary cortisol may show if the adrenal glands are affected, this test cannot pinpoint the reasons behind the adrenal fatigue and chronic fatigue syndrome.
You need a knowledgeable holistic health practitioner who can best guide and treat you and avoid all forms of self treatment.

Dealing with stealth infections and adrenal fatigue syndrome

With the increasing use and abuse of antibiotics and even stronger antibiotics on the rise, the future to immune system problems will need to focus on prevention. We need to re-evaluate our approach to infections. Rather than dropping atomic bombs (antibiotics) on the immune system our focus should be redirected on optimizing the immune system.
It is only a clever physician who knows what to look for and how to put these pieces together. In such cases, recovery is slow partly because the infection has been in the body a long time.
Find a holistic physician who will support the body before tackeling the infectious pathogens. The best approach is to strengthen the body’s immune system with natural compounds, probiotics, vitamins, digestive enzymes and various immunity boosters along with herbal antibiotics. Various methods of detoxification along with adrenal support will help the patient on the path to recovery and good health.

Our Personal Adrenal Fatigue Recovery Program Is A Great Place To Start

Our Adrenal Recovery Program is a Natural Treatment for symptoms such as Fatigue, Brain Fog, Anxiety, Sleeping problems, Hypoglycemia, Weight gain, and many of the symptoms that often accompany Adrenal Gland Imbalances.
Our office utilizes Natural nutritional supplements, Dietary modifications, Hormone and endocrine support formula, and lifestyle guidance.

To Schedule a Free 15 minute Phone Consult to see if this program is right for you. Fill out our online questionnaire.

If you’re ready to get started and schedule an appointment take a moment and fill out our contact us form and in the comment box let us know what time of the day works best to contact you. One of our New Patient Coordinators will contact you with the next available new patient opening within 24-48 hours.

Still have questions? Our Free 15 minute personalized Phone consult is a great place to start.

We’re here to listen and help you through this frustrating and confusing time.

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Facebook, Google, Twitter are now also getting in the way

I have tried very hard to avoid the advertising bandwagon that exists on the internet today. It has always been my intention to provide people with free information, as we all deserve that especially those looking for answers.

It's a place where joining of the dots can be made. Yes I paste and post, if anyone has a problem with that, they can sue me, I have nothing of any value not in pounds and pence anyway.

A lot of information I have found is courtesy of Wikipedia and for that I am very grateful.

I now use Jeeves hoping that it was Google free, but that is not the case, which is now irritating me because when I used them as a search engine it was obvious that they manipulate to guide you in a way that benefits themselves especially if you are a consumer, it is shameless as Amazon is then in your face, constantly poaching our custom away from u.k. companies.

Every time I access my blog an error message comes, which I click x and it goes, google have now sent me an email informing me of a problem with this blog. THERE IS NOT ONE

Also I think that I was inadvertently sharing what I was looking at with Facebook which was then involving my private life as also made my children aware.

Also Facebook Google and Twitter find it necessary to position themselves within an article which is frustrating and inconvenient, but I have managed to scoot round the issue.

I did fully expect this blog to be pulled and access denied in the early days and if it did even today it would not surprise me. So today I have decided to save it to file. and hope through Windows they don't have access to my laptop enabling them to delete it. Who knows eh!

Sunday, 5 July 2015

Ectoparasitic infections - STI's - Bacterial Sepsis Hematopoietic/Lymphoreticular Infections -Infections of the Heart - Infections of bones and joints - Respiratory tract infections

Common Causes of Infectious Diseases
* = most common; please note this is not an exhaustive list and does not include all possible etiologies for a particular disease.

Central Nervous System Infections

Bacterial meningitis

Neonates (less than 1 month old)

Streptococcus agalactiae (Group b streptococcus)
Escherichia col

Children and adults

Streptococcus pneumoniae
Neisseria meningitidis

Elderly (>60 yrs old)

Streptococcus pneumoniae
Gram negative bacilli

Viral (aseptic) meningitis and encephalitis (90% of cases in patients under 30 years old)

Enteroviruses (70%; late summer and early fall)
Arboviral meningoencephalitis (summer via tick or mosquito; West Nile virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus, Western Equine Encephalitis virus, St. Louis Encephalitis virus, California group Encephalitis viruses, Powassan Encephalitis virus)- are the most common cause of episodic encephalitis in the US.
Mumps (late winter and early spring)
Herpes simplex virus (sporadic)
HIV (sporadic)
Rabies virus (rare)

Granulomatous Meningitis (Chronic meningitis)

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Cryptococcus neoformans

Spinal cord

Clostridium tetanus*
Polio virus

Skin (Integument) Infections

There are a huge number of infectious diseases of this the largest organ of the human anatomy. Therefore, only the more common bacterial, viral and fungal microbes are mentioned here.

Common Bacterial Infections.

Staphylococcus aureus - impetigo, bullous impetigo, scalded skin syndrome, folliculitis, furuncles, carbuncles, cellulitis, myositis and toxic shock syndrome.
Streptococcus pyogenes - impetigo, scarlet fever, erysipelas, necrotizing fasciitis, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.
Propionibacterium acne - acne

Common Viral Infections.

Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 viruses- oral and genital herpes
Papilloma viruses – warts, genital warts, cervical dysplasia and cervical carcinoma
Common childhood rashes (exanthems) are caused by
- Coxsackie viruses and Echoviruses (enteroviral rashes),
- Erythrovirus B19 (formerly Parvovirus B19; Erythema Infectiosum)
- Human Herpes virus 6B (Exanthem subitum or Roseola)
- Human Herpes Virus-7 (Exanthem subitum or Roseola)
- Varicella-Zoster virus (Chickenpox)
- Measles virus (Rubeola)
- Rubella virus (Rubella).

Common Fungal Infections.

Malassezia furfur- Tinea versicolor
The dermatophytes (Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton) - Tinea pedis, Tinea corporis, Tinea capitis, Tinea manus and Tinea cruris.
Candida albicans - intertrigo, perlèche, folliculitis, paronchyia and onychomycosis.

Ear Infections

Otitis Media

Streptococcus pneumoniae
Moraxella catarrhalis
Haemophilus influenzae (nontypable)

Otitis externa

Pseudomonas aeruginosa*
Staphylococcus aureus

Eye and Eyelid Infections

Anterior Blepharitis

Staphylococcus aureus or Staphylococcus epidermidis

Hordeola (stye)

Staphylococcus aureus

Periorbital (Preseptal) Cellulitis

Streptococcus pneumoniae in young children
Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes post-traumatic

Orbital (Postseptal) Cellulitis

Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae and Enterobacteriaceae

Dacryocystitis

Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Conjunctivitis

Viral- Adenoviruses*, Herpes Simplex viruses’ types 1 and 2 (less common but more serious infection)
Bacterial (pinkeye)- Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Neisseria meningitidis
Chlamydial- Chlamydia trachomatis

Keratitis

Bacteria*
- Gram positive bacteria (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus viridans, enterococci and Peptostreptococcus) are most frequently obtained with the most common of them being Staphylococcus aureus.
- Gram positive bacilli that cause keratitis include Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Bacillus and Clostridium
- Gram negative bacilli that cause keratitis include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia marcescens, Escherichia coli and Aeromonas hydrophila. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most destructive of the bacterial causes of keratitis.
- Gram negative cocci or coccobacilli that cause keratitis include Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Neisseria meningitidis, Moraxella, Pasteurella multocida and Acinetobacter.
- Ocular lymphogranuloma venereum is more serious than simple chlamydial conjunctivitis because corneal scars, conjunctival scars, and micropannus formation can occur (serotypes L1-L3 of Chlamydia trachomatis).
Viruses
- Herpes Simplex 1 and 2*- most common of viruses
- Adenoviruses- epidemic keratoconjunctivitis
- Varicella Zoster virus

Respiratory Tract Infections

Acute Rhinosinusitis

Usually caused by various respiratory viruses.

Acute Bacterial Rhinosinusitis

Streptococcus pneumoniae
Haemophilus influenzae (nontypable)

Common cold (Rhinitis)

Rhinoviruses*
Coronaviruses

Pharyngitis

Adenovirus
Herpes Simplex virus
Epstein Barr Virus
Coxsackie viruses
Remember Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus is important because of the complications that can result (rheumatic fever).

Viral Croup

Parainfluenza virus
Influenza virus
Respiratory syncytial virus (most common cause of bronchiolitis in children under 1 year of age).

Bacterial tracheitis

Staphylococcus aureus

Epiglottitis

Haemophilus influenzae type b (very rare now due to the Hib vaccine)

Bronchitis

Respiratory viruses that infect the upper respiratory tract: influenza viruses A and B, parainfluenza viruses, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, herpes simplex virus, rhinovirus, coxsackievirus A and B, and echovirus.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Chlamydophila pneumoniae (TWAR agent)- 5% of cases
Streptococcus pyogenes

Bronchiolitis

Respiratory Syncytial virus (RSV)

Pneumonia

Neonatal (0-1 month)

Escherichia coli
Streptococcus agalactiae (group B streptococcus)

Infants (1-6 month)

Chlamydia trachomatis (afebrile pneumonia with staccato cough)
RSV

Children (6month-5 year)

RSV
Parainfluenza virus

Children (5-15 year)

Mycoplasma pneumoniae
Influenza virus type A

Young Adults (16-30 yr)

Mycoplasma pneumoniae

Older Adults

Streptococcus pneumoniae*
Haemophilus influenzae

Gastrointestinal tract infections

Infections of the Teeth

Dental caries- Streptococcus mutans
Gingivitis/periodontal disease- is a polymicrobial process; Organisms commonly associated with these conditions: Eubacterium sp., Micromonas (Peptostreptococcus) micros, Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Bacteroides forsythus, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Prevotella intermedia, Capnocytophaga sp., Selenomonas sp., and spirochaetes.

Ludwig’s Angina

Streptococcus, Bacteroides, Fusobacterium and/or Staphylococcus aureus

Infections of the Mouth and Tongue

Herpes Simplex viruses 1 and 2 (gingivostomatitis or cold sores)

Candida albicans (oral candidiasis)

Angular Cheilitis

Candida albicans

Parotitis

Mumps virus- benign viral parotitis

Staphylococcus aureus- acute bacterial parotitis

Esophagitis- usually only seen in immunocompromised patients

Candida albicans*

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Human Immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV)

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Helicobacter pylori

Intestinal Infections- Bacterial (can be inflammatory [blood and mucus small volume; fecal wbc's present] or noninflammatory [large volume watery stools; fecal wbc's NOT present]

Inflammatory ones

Campylobacter jejuni
Escherichia coli (EIEC)
Escherichia coli (EHEC)
Salmonella typhimurium
Salmonella typhi (get also fever and headache; sometimes no diarrhea)
Shigella dysenteriae type 1 (lots of PMN's)
Shigella sonnei/flexneri
Yersinia enterocolitica
Clostridium difficile (can be both inflammatory and non-inflammatory)

Non-inflammatory ones

Escherichia coli (EPEC)
Escherichia coli (ETEC)
Escherichia coli (EAEC)
Vibrio cholerae
Clostridium difficile (can be both inflammatory and non-inflammatory)

Parasitic infections of the intestine

Giardia lamblia*
Entamoeba histolytica
Cryptosporidium parvum
Enterobius vermicularis
Taenia saginata
Taenia solium
Hymenolepis nana
Ascaris lumbricoides
Necator americanus
Strongyloides stercoralis

Viral Gastroenteritis

Rotavirus (winter infant diarrhea- most common in infants and children)
Noroviruses* (winter vomiting disease- most common in industrialized countries)
Norwalk virus (summer diarrhea)
Adenoviruses
Astroviruses

Food poisoning- intoxications

Staphylococcus aureus*
Bacillus cereus
Clostridium perfringens
Clostridium botulinum

Viral Hepatitis- Infections of the Liver

Hepatitis A virus*
Hepatitis C virus
Hepatitis B virus

Infections of the Bones and Joints

Osteomyelitis

Staphylococcus aureus*
Streptococcus sp.
Members of the Enterobacteriaceae

Septic arthritis

Neisseria gonorrhoeae (most common in sexually active young adults)
Staphylococcus aureus*

Infections of the Heart

Pericarditis

Viral pericarditis*- Enteroviruses [Coxsackieviruses (A and B) and Echovirus (type 8)]
Purulent pericarditis- rare- Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae and other streptococci
Chronic pericarditis- rare- Mycobacterium tuberculosis and various fungi (Candida sp.)

Myocarditis

Enteroviruses (Coxsackievirus B is the most common)*

Endocarditis

· Native valve- Streptococcus sp. (60-80%, viridans streptococci (30-40%), Streptococcus bovis (10%), Enterococci (S. faecalis and S. faecium; 5-18%) and Staphylococci (20-35%, usually Staphylococcus aureus)

· Intravenous drug users- Staphylococcus aureus (50%) and gram-negative bacilli (15%; Pseudomonas aeruginosa is most the common gram-negative).

· Prosthetic valve infections

Early (within 2 months of surgery) - Staphylococcus (50%; coagulase positive and coagulase negative), gram-negative aerobic bacilli (20%) and fungi (5%).
Late (more than 2 months post surgery) - viridans Streptococcus sp. (35%), coagulase negative staphylococci (20%), and Staphylococcus aureus (10%).

Rheumatic Heart Disease

Streptococcus pyogenes

Hematopoietic/Lymphoreticular Infections

Infections of the Lymphocytes

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS)- T-lymphocytes
Infectious Mononucleosis- B-lymphocytes
Cytomegalovirus Infections- T-lymphocytes and macrophages

Infections of the Phagocytic Cells

Cat-scratch disease – Bartonella henselae
Tularemia – Francisella tularensis
Ehrlichiosis/Anaplasmosis - Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia ewingii and Anaplasma phagocytophilum
Q fever- Coxiella burnetii
Brucellosis- Brucella sp. Plague- Yersinia pestis

Infection of the Erythrocytes

Babesia- Babesia microti
Malaria- Plasmodium sp.

Infection of the Endothelial Cells

Bacillary Angiomatosis/Hepatica peliosis- Bartonella henselae or Bartonella quintana
Endemic relapsing fever- Borrelia sp. (15 different species; B. hermsii, B. parkeri)
Epidemic Hemorrhagic fever- Sin Nombre virus (Hantavirus- hantavirus pulmonary syndrome)
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever- Rickettsia rickettsii

Bacterial Sepsis

Neonates

E.coli*
Streptococcus agalactiae (group b strep.)

Adults (Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, Sepsis, Septic Shock)

Most are due to bacterial infections. 50% due to Gram negative bacteria; 50% due to Gram positive bacteria. It depends on the location of the site of the initial infection. Most common sites of infection leading to sepsis are lungs, abdomen, and urinary tract (ex. urinary tract think Escherichia coli; community acquired pneumonia think Streptococcus pneumoniae).

Infections of the Genitourinary Tract

Cystitis and Pyelonephritis

Escherichia coli*

Acute bacterial Prostatitis

Escherichia coli*

Vaginitis

Bacterial Vaginosis* (BV) due to Gardnerella vaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis and various anaerobic bacteria including Mobiluncus sp., and Prevotella sp.
Candida albicans
Trichomonas vaginalis

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) of the Genitourinary Tract

Genital Ulcerative Diseases

Genital Herpes- HSV-2* (80%),
HSV-1 (20%) Syphilis- Treponema pallidum
Chancroid- Haemophilus ducreyi
Granuloma Inguinale- Klebsiella granulomatis (formerly Calymmatobacterium granulomatis)
Lymphogranuloma Venereum- Chlamydia trachomatis

Urethritis

Chlamydia trachomatis*
Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Cervicitis

Chlamydia trachomatis*
Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Other STI’s

Acute Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Chlamydia trachomatis*
Neisseria gonorrhoeae

Genital Warts

Human Papilloma virus (HPV types 6 and 11 most common for wart-like lesions; HPV types 16 and 18 most common for with cervical dysplasia and carcinoma.)

Epididymitis

Sexually active men aged <35 years- Chlamydia trachomatis or Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Men >35 years of age- gram-negative enteric bacteria

Ectoparasitic Infections

Scabies

Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis

Pediculosis

Pediculus humanus capitis (head louse)
Pediculus humanus corporis (body louse)
Pthirus pubis (pubic louse)

* = Most common; please note this is not an exhaustive list and does not include all possible etiologies for a particular disease.

TO GO BACK TO MY .
Revised 12/6/06

Meningitis - Viral meningitis occurs mostly in children younger than age 5. ... Mumps; Herpesvirus, including Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex viruses, varicella- zoster virus (which also causes chicken pox and ... Candida - The fungus that causes thrush.

WHAT IS MENINGITIS?

Meningitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord known as the meninges. The inflammation is usually caused by an infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is also referred to as spinal meningitis. Meningitis may develop in response to a number of causes, usually bacteria or viruses, but meningitis can also be caused by physical injury, cancer or certain drugs.

RISK FACTORS

Age
- Viral meningitis occurs mostly in children younger than age 5.
- Before the availability of effective vaccines, bacterial meningitis was most commonly diagnosed in young children. Now, as a result of the protection offered by current childhood vaccines, bacterial meningitis is more commonly diagnosed among pre-teens and young adults.
Community setting
- Infectious diseases tend to spread quickly wherever larger groups of people gather together. As a result, college students living in dormitories, military personnel and children in childcare facilities are at an increased risk.
Pregnancy
- Pregnant women are at an increased risk of catching listeriosis. The bacteria that cause listeriosis, listeria bacteria, can also cause meningitis. The unborn baby of a pregnant woman with listeriosis is also at risk.
Working with animals.
- Dairy farmers, ranchers, and other people who work with domestic animals are at an increased risk of contracting listeriosis. The bacteria that cause listeriosis, listeria bacteria, can also cause meningitis.
Weakened immune system.
- There are certain diseases, medications and surgical procedures that may weaken the immune system and increase risk of meningitis.

TYPES, CAUSES, AND HOW THEY ARE SPREAD

Bacterial Meningitis is usually more severe. It can have serious after-effects, such as brain damage, hearing loss, limb amputation, or learning disabilities.
- Causes vary by age group
  - Newborns - Group B Streptococci, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes
  - Infants - Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae
  - Children - N. meningitidis, S. pneumoniae
  - Adults - S. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis, Mycobacteria
- Bacterial meningitis is contagious. The bacteria are spread through the exchange of respiratory and throat secretions (i.e., coughing, kissing). Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as things like the common cold or the flu. Also, the bacteria are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been.
Viral Meningitis is generally less severe and resolves without specific treatment.
- Most cases are caused by viral infections
  - Mumps
  - Herpesvirus, including Epstein-Barr virus, herpes simplex viruses, varicella-zoster virus (which also causes chicken pox and shingles), measles, and influenza
  - Viruses spread through mosquitoes and other insects (arboviruses)
  - In rare cases LCMV (lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus), which is spread by rodents, can cause viral meningitis
- Enteroviruses, the most common cause of viral meningitis, are most often spread from person to person through fecal contamination (which can occur when changing a diaper or using the toilet and not properly washing hands afterwards). Enteroviruses can also be spread through respiratory secretions (saliva, sputum, or nasal mucus) of an infected person. Other viruses, such as mumps and varicella-zoster virus, may also be spread through direct or indirect contact with saliva, sputum, or mucus of an infected person.
Fungal Meningitis is rare, but can be life threatening. Although anyone can get fungal meningitis, people at higher risk include those who have AIDS, leukemia, or other forms of immunodeficiency (an immune system that does not respond adequately to infections) and immunosuppression (immune system malfunction as a result of medical treatment).
- Causes of Fungal Meningitis
  - Cryptococcus - The most common cause of fungal meningitis for people with immune system deficiencies, like HIV.
  - Candida - The fungus that causes thrush.
  - Histoplasma - A fungus found primarily in soil or bird/bat droppings in the Midwestern United States, although it can be seen in other places.
  - Coccidioides - A fungus found in soil in Southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
- Fungal meningitis is not contagious. It is not transmitted from person to person.
Non-infectious Meningitis
- Causes
  - Cancers
  - Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus)
  - Certain drugs
  - Head injury
  - Brain surgery
- This type of meningitis is not spread from person to person.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Meningitis infection is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, headache, and stiff neck.

Brudzinski's sign of meningitis

Kernig's sign of meningitis

Symptoms-Of-Meningitis-Among-Young-Adults-2

FOR OTHER SYMPTOMS OF MENINGITIS - CLICK HERE

DIAGNOSIS

If meningitis is suspected, samples of blood or cerebrospinal fluid are collected and sent to the laboratory for testing. It is important to know the specific cause of meningitis because the severity of illness and the treatment will differ depending on the cause.

TREATMENT

Bacterial Meningitis - Can be treated with a number of effective antibiotics.
Viral Meningitis - There is no specific treatment for viral meningitis. Antibiotics do not help viral infections, so they are not useful in the treatment of viral meningitis. Most patients completely recover on their own within 7 to 10 days. A hospital stay may be necessary in more severe cases or for people with weak immune systems.
Fungal Meningitis -Treated with long courses of high dose antifungal medications. This is usually given using an IV line and is done in the hospital.

PREVENTION

Bacterial Meningitis - Keeping up to date with the recommended immunizations is the best defense. Meningococcal, Pneumococcal, and Hib vaccines are effective for three bacteria that cause meningitis: Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib).
Viral Meningitis - There are no vaccines for the most common causes of viral meningitis. Click HERE for some steps you can take to help lower your chances of becoming infected with viruses or of passing one on to someone else.

For more information about Meningitis, visit the CDC website.
To get your child vaccinated, call and make an appointment at (308) 385-5175

influenza, the common cold, candida infections, meningitis, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), encephalitis, ... drhoffman.com/article/olive-leaf-extract-2/

The Bible refers to the olive tree as the “tree of life.” Olives, the ripe fruit of the tree, yield healthy monounsaturated fats and phytochemicals that act as potent antioxidants. Research on the benefits of olive oil abounds in scientific literature. Yet, people are still not aware of the amazing healing powers of another component of the olive tree, the leaves.
The olive tree, botanically designated as Olea europaea, brings to us a promising herbal product known as olive leaf extract. The ancient Egyptians regarded olive leaf as a symbol of heavenly power, and in keeping with that belief, they extracted its oil and used it to mummify their kings. The healing powers of olive leaf were realized as early as the 1880s when it was utilized to counteract malaria. According to the 1854 Pharmaceutical Journal of Provincial Transactions (pp. 363-354), Hanbury stated that a “decoction of the leaves” of the olive tree had been found to be extremely effective in reducing fevers due to a severe and otherwise often-fatal disease that swept the island of Mytilene in 1843. The olive leaf extract was reported subsequently to be more effective in its fever-lowering properties than quinine. Hanbury recalled that similar observations had been made in France and Spain between 1811 and 1828. It appears that in the early 19th century, Spanish physicians sometimes prescribed olive leaves as a “febrifuge,” and often used them to treat cases of intermittent fever (2). Hanbury concluded that the properties of the tree Olea europaea deserved more extensive investigation.
In the early1900s scientists isolated a bitter compound called oleuropein from olive leaf that was thought to give the olive tree its disease resistance. In 1962 an Italian researcher recorded that oleuropein had the ability to lower blood pressure in animals. Other European researchers validated that claim and also found it to increase blood flow in the coronary arteries, relieve arrhythmia and prevent intestinal muscle spasms. In the years to come, a Dutch researcher identified that a primary ingredient in oleuropein inhibited the growth of viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites. This chemical was elenolic acid. Further European research determined this compound to have strong bactericidal, antiviral and antifungal capabilities. A safety study on calcium elenolate was tested with laboratory animals and published by the Upjohn pharmaceutical company in 1970. The study concluded that even in doses several hundred times higher than recommended, no toxic or other adverse side effects were discovered.
Health professionals first started using olive leaf extract in 1995 when it first became available. Although we do not have a long-term perspective as yet, initial results are very positive. We see a very promising and unique herb with multiple applications. It shows considerable therapeutic action against many common conditions. In short, it appears to be living up to its unique background and expectations.
From research and clinical experience to date, we can say that supplemental olive leaf may be beneficial in the treatment for conditions caused by, or associated with, a virus, retrovirus, bacterium or protozoan. Among those treatable conditions are: influenza, the common cold, candida infections, meningitis, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), encephalitis, herpes I and II, human herpes virus 6 and 7, shingles (Herpes zoster), HIV/ARC/AIDS, chronic fatigue, hepatitis B, pneumonia, tuberculosis, gonorrhea, malaria, dengue, severe diarrhea, and dental, ear, urinary tract and surgical infections.
Many people who live stressful lives or who may be particularly susceptible to colds and viruses may benefit from long-term use of olive leaf as a preventive agent. Some patients have expressed other unexpected benefits of olive leaf including improved psoriasis, normalization of heart beat irregularities, diminished cravings, and less pain from hemorrhoids, toothaches and chronically achy joints.
Research suggests that olive leaf may be a true antiviral compound because it appears to selectively block an entire virus-specific system in the infected host. It then appears to offer healing effects not addressed by pharmaceutical antibiotics. Olive leaf’s broad killing power includes an ability to interfere with critical amino acid production for viruses; an ability to contain viral infection and/or spread by inactivating viruses by preventing virus shredding, budding or assembly at the cell membrane; and the ability to directly penetrate infected cells and stop viral replication.
After exhaustive research, Dr. Hoffman is proud to announce his version of olive leaf extract. What makes this product so unique is the fact that it is standardized to contain a minimum of 20 percent oleuropein per capsule. The actual content can be as high as 23 percent. Remember, oleuropein is the active antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antiparasitic component of olive leaf. Inferior products abound, partially due to confusion. For example, Dr. Hoffman’s own olive leaf extract contains 500 mg of olive leaf extract, standardized to 20 percent oleuropein per capsule and many people only focus on the 500 mg. Sure, I have found 500 mg capsules of olive leaf in health food stores, but the usual amount of oleuropein (the active component) is only 6 percent. The highest percent of oleuropein I have ever found in a bottle of olive leaf is 12 percent, and that costs $40 per bottle for 60 capsules. Additionally, many olive leaf extract supplements do not contain the listed amount of oleuropein. Dr. Hoffman specifically researched this fact and makes sure that his brand of olive leaf extract contains what is listed and functions exactly as he intends. Dr. Hoffman employs olive leaf extract for most bacterial, viral, parasitic and fungal conditions. There are many unique uses for this medicinal herb. The key to the benefits of olive leaf extract is to find a product that contains enough of the active constituent to achieve the desired outcome.
Dosage: for health maintenance take one or two 500 mg capsules (20 percent oleuropein), twice daily with meals. For the common cold take either two 500 mg capsules, 4 times per day with meals, or one capsule every hour while awake. For long standing infections or candida, take two capsules, three to four times per day, with meals.
References
Hanbury D. On the febrifuge properties of the olive (Olea europea, L.), Pharmaceutical Journal of Provincial Transactions, pp. 353-354, 1854.
Cruess WV, and Alsberg CL, The bitter glucoside of the olive. J Amer. Chem. Soc. 1934; 56:2115-7.
Veer WLC et al. A Compound isolated from Europea. Recueil,1957; 76:839-40.
Panizzi L et al. The constitution of oleuropein, a bitter glucoside of the olive with hypotensive action. Gazz. Chim. Ital; 1960; 90:1449-85.
Renis HE, In vitro antiviral activity of calcium elenolate, an antiviral agent. Antimicrob. AgentsChemother., 1970; 167-72.
Petkov V and Manolov P, Pharmacological analysis of the iridoid oleuopein. Drug Res., 1972; 22(9); 1476-86.
Zarzuelo A et al, Vasodilator effect of olive leaf, Planta Med., 1991; 57(5)417-9.
The evaluation of long-term effects of cinnamon bark and olive leaf on toxicity induced by streptozotocin administration to rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999 Nov;51(11):1305
- See more at: http://drhoffman.com/article/olive-leaf-extract-2/#sthash.FbgsqwrV.dpuf

Viruses and cancer - when will they get it, Candida is the common denominator, plus EBV

Written or reviewed by a board-certified physician. See About.com's Medical Review Board.
How many times have you been told by your doctor that you have a virus and the only treatment is to let it run its course? Probably quite a few times. We have all been infected with viruses in our lives -- the result being a sore throat, stomachache or other mild symptom. In many cases, viruses are quite harmless. In some cases, however, they can greatly compromise our health, causing many diseases and conditions, including cancer.

How Does a Virus Cause Cancer?

A virus is nothing more than DNA or RNA wrapped in a protein coat. What makes them unique is that they do not contain the necessary materials to function on their own. They are forced to invade a host cell (can be plant, animal, or bacterial) in order to thrive and reproduce. There are several ways that a virus can cause cancer. One way is for the virus that has invaded a host cell to alter the cell's genetic coding, causing a mutation. In turn, these actions can result in cancer. A Look At The Role of Viruses in Cancer

Viruses Known to Cause Cancer

Human Papillomavirus (HPV): The human papillomavirus (HPV) is sexually transmitted virus affecting over 20 million Americans. It is the most common type of sexually transmitted infection. There are currently over one hundred known strains of HPV. About thirty of these strains affect both male and female genitalia, causing conditions like genital warts and more seriously, cancer. HPV is linked to several types of cancer, including cervical, anal, vaginal, vulvar, and penile cancers.
Recent research has shown that HPV is strongly linked to the development of certain types of throat cancers.

Hepatitis: Infection with Hepatitis B virus (HBV) or Hepatitis C (HCV) virus greatly put you at risk for developing liver cancer. These viral infections are extremely contagious are are spread through the transmission of blood, semen, and other bodily fluids from one person to another. Common means of exposure include unprotected sex, mother to infant transmission during childbirth, and the sharing of intravenous needles (most often by dug use, but can also occur during tattooing).
There is no vaccine for Hep C, but there is for Hep B. The hepatitis B vaccine is recommended for all children in the United States and is required for school entry. If you are an adult, take a look over your medical records to ensure you were properly immunized as a child. If you don't have access to those records, talk with your physician about how the vaccine may benefit you as an adult.
Epstein Barr Virus (EBV): The Epstein Barr virus is most commonly recognized for causing mononucleosis, but can also cause a few different types of lymphoma and nasopharyngeal cancer. It is important to note that not all people infected people with EBV will develop cancer. It is a very common virus that usually does not cause any major health problems.
EBV is transmitted through the saliva of an infected person. The virus is shed through a person's saliva during a period where the infected person does not have any symptoms. It can be spread through kissing, sharing a drink, or other means where a person may be exposed to another's saliva.

What is Mononucleosis?
Are Epstein-Barr and Chronic Fatigue Related?
How Do You Know If You Have Epstein-Barr Virus?

Human Immunodefiency Virus (HIV): AIDS related cancers are not directly caused by HIV or AIDS, but a combination of factors. It is believed that the weakened immune system caused by the virus makes people more vulnerable to developing cancer. Those with HIV/AIDS may also be at a higher risk for cancer because of factors such as smoking, drinking, and genetics.

Less Common Viruses Known to Cause Cancer

Viruses such as Human T-lymphotrophic virus-1 (HTLV-1) and Human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8) are related to cancer development, but are not as common as the viruses listed above. Several viruses are being investigated in their role in cancer development.
If you are concerned with your risk of cancer because of a viral infection, talk to your doctor. Together you can discuss your risk of cancer and if you need screening or more frequent screening for certain types of cancer.
_Sources:
_{Daniels D, Grytdal S, Wasley A; Surveillance for acute viral hepatitis - United States, 2007.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss5803a1.htm}
_{Hildesheim, A, Schiffman, M, Bromley, C, et al. Human papillomavirus type 16 variants and risk of cervical cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2001; 93:315.}

Epidemiology

There are around 4,000 new cases of encephalitis each year in the UK.
Infections are most frequent and severe in children and the elderly.
Herpes simplex can cause a benign lymphocytic meningitis in adults, but usually produces a severe encephalitis in neonates. Infection in adults can also be very severe.
Post-infectious encephalitis is the most common demyelinating condition and is most often seen in children, as it may complicate the common childhood exanthemas.

Aetiology

HIV infection is of increasing importance; toxoplasmic meningoencephalitis was one of the first opportunistic infections to be described in HIV-infected patients.^[1]
Viral:
- Viral encephalitis may be due either to:
  - Acute viral encephalitis (caused by a direct viral infection of the brain).
  - Post-infectious encephalitis (also called acute disseminated encephalomyelitis) which is an autoimmune process, following a viral infection elsewhere in the body.
- Most viral infections in childhood are able to cause encephalitis.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) encephalitis is recognised worldwide as the most frequent infectious encephalitis, and the only one with a validated specific treatment.^[2]
- Most HSV encephalitis is due to HSV-1. Around 10% are caused by HSV-2.
- Other common viral causes are herpes zoster, Epstein-Barr virus, mumps, measles and enteroviruses.
- Other viral causes include cytomegalovirus, adenovirus, influenza virus, poliovirus, rubella, rabies, arbovirus (eg California virus, Japanese B encephalitis, St Louis encephalitis, West Nile encephalitis, Eastern and Western equine encephalitis), reovirus (Colorado tick fever virus), parvovirus B19.
Bacterial causes: tuberculosis (TB), mycoplasma, listeria, Lyme disease, Bartonella henselae (cat scratch fever), leptospira, brucella, legionella, neurosyphilis, all causes of bacterial meningitis.
Rickettsial: Rocky Mountain spotted fever, endemic typhus, epidemic typhus, Q fever, human monocytic ehrlichiosis.
Fungal: cryptococcosis, coccidiomycosis, histoplasmosis, North American blastomycosis, candidiasis.
Parasitic: African trypanosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, echinococcus, schistosomiasis.
Tick-borne encephalitis is a rapidly growing public health problem in Europe and other parts of the world. It is caused by tick-borne encephalitis virus, a member of the family Flaviviridae. (See separate Tick-borne encephalitis article for more information.)^[3]
Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis is caused by infection from an amoeba such as Naegleria fowleri or Balamuthia mandrillaris.
The disease is very rare but has a very high mortality rate.

Presentation

The clinical hallmark of acute encephalitis is the triad of fever, headache, and altered mental status.^[4]

Most patients with viral encephalitis present with the symptoms of meningitis (fever, headache, neck stiffness, vomiting) followed by altered consciousness, convulsions, and sometimes focal neurological signs, signs of raised intracranial pressure, or psychiatric symptoms. There may be an association with a history of infection elsewhere in the body.

Encephalitis may begin with a flu-like illness or with a headache, followed by a rapid development of altered consciousness, with confusion, drowsiness, seizures and coma.
Symptoms may also include symptoms of increased intracranial pressure, such as severe headache, vertigo, nausea, convulsions and mental confusion. Other possible symptoms include photophobia, sensory changes and neck stiffness.
Epilepsy, focal neurological signs and cognitive impairment may develop.
Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis is a late complication of measles and presents four to ten years after the initial infection. Progression may be slow or rapid with personality change, dementia, seizures, ataxia and death. Progressive rubella panencephalitis is similar.

Differential diagnosis

Meningitis
Behçet's disease
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Post-vaccine encephalomyelitis
Stroke
Multiple sclerosis
Syphilis
Intracerebral tumour
Leukaemia
Lymphoma

Clues to the origin of the encephalitis may be ascertained from the presentation; for example:

A history of recent foreign travel, contact with animals, insect bites, immune status and occupation may all give a clue to the infecting organism.
Chickenpox encephalitis often has cerebellar involvement.
Herpes simplex encephalitis is often associated with temporal lobe epilepsy.

Investigations

The investigations and management of viral encephalitis should be as detailed in current guidelines for adults^[5] and children^[6].

Laboratory diagnosis of viral encephalitis is ideally based on examination of CSF for cells, protein and glucose, lactate and virology PCR. All patients with suspected encephalitis should have a CSF PCR test for HSV (1 and 2), varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and enteroviruses, as this will identify 90% of cases due to known viral pathogens.

CSF:
- Viral encephalomyelitis leads to a lymphocytosis with normal CSF/Plasma glucose ratio. Opening pressure is usually normal or high and the CSF is clear.
- CSF protein levels are usually normal or high.
- Elevated CSF specific antibody levels relative to serum indicate CNS infection with the respective organism.
- All patients with suspected encephalitis should have a CSF PCR test for HSV (1 and 2), VZV and enteroviruses, as this will identify 90% of cases due to known viral pathogens.
- PCR analysis of the CSF can be useful to diagnose several viral infections, including herpes simplex, Epstein-Barr, varicella zoster, cytomegalovirus, HIV, rabies and TB.
FBC and film: leukocytosis. May indicate atypical lymphocytes in Epstein-Barr viral infections, morulae of Ehrlichia, trypanosomes in trypanosomiasis, borreliae in relapsing fever, or the gametes of Plasmodium falciparum in malaria.
Other blood tests should include blood cultures, renal function and electrolytes, LFTs, glucose, ESR and CRP.
Other cultures, eg throat swabs and stool cultures, may be indicated.
CT scan:
- Can help to rule out space-occupying lesions, strokes, basilar fractures of the skull, and detect CSF leaks to localise fracture sites.
- CT scan is also used to identify raised intracranial pressure, which will then need to delay a lumbar puncture.
MRI scan:
- Provides a sensitive detection of demyelination and can provide evidence of oedematous changes that occur in the early stage of encephalitis.
Electroencephalogram (EEG):
- Frequently abnormal (diffuse slowing with periodic discharges) in chronic and acute herpes simplex encephalitis and can sometimes help to determine the localisation in the early stages.
- Is more useful than a CT scan in the first week.

Management^[5]^[6]

Urgent hospital admission.
Immediate parenteral antibiotics for possible diagnosis of meningitis. Intravenous or intramuscular benzylpenicillin should be given as long as the patient is not allergic to penicillins.
In any case of possible encephalitis, prompt treatment with aciclovir by intravenous infusion, to cover herpes simplex. Aciclovir can be life-saving but must be started immediately the diagnosis is suspected. Aciclovir has been shown to greatly improve the prognosis if given before coma develops but any delay in starting treatment leads to a much worse prognosis.
There is no specific treatment for other viral causes and the emphasis of treatment is supportive.
The role of steroids in the treatment of HSV encephalitis is not established.
Intravenous fluids need to be given very carefully in order not to aggravate cerebral oedema.
Other treatments may include anticonvulsants and sedatives (to reduce agitation).
Intensive care, including ventilation, may also be necessary in severe cases, to reduce brain swelling.
Intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics may be given to treat secondary bacterial infections.
Amphotericin is usually given for primary amoebic meningoencephalitis.

Complications

Inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Cardiac and respiratory arrest.
Epilepsy.
There is a broad range of potential neuropsychiatric impairments. Significant changes may occur in personality and in the ability to function, even if there is a complete physical recovery. Residual impairment may be cognitive, behavioural or emotional and vary greatly in severity. Severe amnesic syndrome caused by profound damage to the temporal lobes may occur.
Physical problems include mild balance, co-ordination and dexterity problems or major neurological problems, with speech and swallowing problems and total dependency.

Prognosis

The prognosis depends on the age of the patient and the underlying aetiology.
The poorest prognosis for viral encephalitis occurs in patients with untreated herpes simplex encephalitis and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.

Prevention

Some encephalitides can be reliably prevented by vaccination, eg Japanese encephalitis and rabies.^[7]
Vector control is the main method of prevention for some pathogens, eg arboviruses.