Fact 3: Early Symptoms of HSE
In the early stages of HSE, patients often present symptoms that closely resemble the onset of a flu or another common viral illness. It begins with a fever, an increased body temperature that signals an internal battle. The immune system is waging a war against an invader, in this case, the herpes simplex virus that has gained access to the brain.
Accompanying the fever, a persistent headache sets in. This is not your ordinary, run-of-the-mill tension headache. It’s persistent, throbbing, an undercurrent of discomfort that doesn’t relent with over-the-counter pain relievers. It serves as a warning, a flare shot up by the body indicating something far more serious is taking root.
The general sense of malaise is another common early symptom. Patients may report feeling ‘off’, not quite themselves. They may experience fatigue, a bone-deep exhaustion that sleep doesn’t seem to relieve. They may lack appetite and struggle with daily tasks. These symptoms, while vague, can point to a more serious underlying condition if they persist over a period of time.
Another early symptom of HSE is nausea and vomiting. The body is trying to rid itself of the invading virus, and in the process, triggers the urge to purge. This symptom can add to the overall feeling of illness, further convincing the patient that they are dealing with a bout of the flu or another less serious viral infection. (3)
