Fact 10: Recurrence of HSE
Herpesviral Encephalitis, although often considered a one-time event, has been known to reoccur. This recurrence can take place due to various reasons, which can sometimes be challenging to pinpoint. A resurgence of symptoms might be a sign that the virus has been reactivated in the system, indicating a potential secondary outbreak.
Reactivations of the herpes simplex virus can be triggered by various factors, including stress, other illnesses, or sometimes no discernable cause at all. It is theorized that the virus may lie dormant in the nervous system, and when conditions are right, it can flare up again, leading to a recurrence of HSE.
The symptoms of a recurring outbreak can be similar to the initial infection, including headaches, fevers, and seizures. It’s also possible to experience more pronounced neurological symptoms during a recurrence, especially if the initial infection caused significant damage to the nervous system. Recognizing these symptoms early is vital as it allows for quick medical intervention, which can significantly improve the prognosis.
Unfortunately, there are no foolproof measures to prevent HSE recurrence currently. However, some patients might be prescribed long-term antiviral therapy if they’re deemed at high risk of recurrence. This treatment aims to keep the virus suppressed, reducing the chances of another HSE episode. (10)
