Symptom 3: Changes in Behavior and Mood
Another manifestation of Encephalitis Lethargica is significant changes in mood and behavior. People affected may exhibit an altered emotional state, showing signs of irritability, depression, or anxiety. These emotional changes can seem sudden and out of character, leaving loved ones puzzled and concerned.
The affected individuals may display unexpected fits of anger or sadness, seemingly unprovoked or disproportionate to the situation. They may also have periods of anxiety, marked by excessive worry, restlessness, and a constant sense of impending doom. These intense emotions can disrupt daily life, straining relationships and making regular activities challenging.
Along with these emotional changes, the person may also experience behavioral changes. They may lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed, isolate themselves from others, or neglect personal hygiene. These changes are often gradual, creeping in so slowly that they might go unnoticed until they’ve significantly impacted the person’s life.
In more severe cases, there may be a stark change in personality. A once outgoing and sociable individual may become withdrawn and indifferent, or a usually calm person may become easily agitated. These transformations can be deeply unsettling, both for the person experiencing them and for their loved ones. (3)
