A three-layered membrane, called meninges, surrounds your spinal cord and brain. These tissues cushion and protect your brain, and they support the health and function of your central nervous systems.
Sometimes, these tissues can become infected or swollen. Meningitis is the name of this condition.
Types Of Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis, however, is the most common form of meningitis. Bacteria that enter the bloodstream and infect your brain or central nervous system can cause meningitis because your meningeal tissues support your blood vessels.
Meningitis can be classified into , based on the cause.
- Bacterial meningitis
- Fungal meningitis
- Viral or aseptic meningitis
- Parasitic meningitis
- Amebic meningitis
There are also non-infectious cases of meningitis where the inflammation may be caused by a brain injury, cancer or lupus. Certain medications and other factors can also cause this condition.
Meningitis is also classified as acute
- Acute Meningitis: Symptoms develop rapidly, usually within a few hours or days
- Chronic Meningitis: Symptoms develop slowly over weeks or months. This is often caused by a weakened immunity due to AIDS, cancer chemotherapy or long-term prednisone use.
Meningitis: Signs and symptoms
Untreated bacterial meningitis can lead to serious health complications and even death. It’s therefore important to know the early symptoms of meningitis. It is rare, but most cases are in children younger than five years old. Parents and caregivers should be on high alert.
Symptoms of meningitis include:
- Fever
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity of bright light
- Unresponsiveness or drowsiness
- Lack of appetite or unwillingness to eat
- Seizures
- Red or purple rash
- Swelling of head
- Confusion or irritability
Some of these symptoms are not present in all cases. Watch for sudden onsets of severe headaches, fever and stiff neck.
If you think you or your child might be suffering from meningitis, it is important to get medical help immediately. Your doctor will order tests (MRIs, CT scans, spinal taps) to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other possible conditions.
Treatment of Outlook
Treatment for meningitis will vary depending on its specific cause. Meningitis caused by bacteria is treated using antibiotics.
The virus usually heals itself within a couple of weeks. You may receive medication to relieve your symptoms or treat complications.
Meningitis of all types can be treated successfully if it is diagnosed and treated early. Prognosis can be good with prompt medical treatment.
Meningitis vaccines can be obtained and are recommended for specific age groups. Talk to your doctor about the best one for you and your children.
