Meningitis: Everything You Need to Know

Symptoms

In most cases, the early symptoms of bacterial and viral meningitis are similar to flu. However, if left unattended, the symptoms may worsen over a few days and create life-threatening complications.

Some common symptoms of meningitis are:

• High fever

• Severe headache and irritability

• Sleeplessness and confusion

• Seizures

• Nausea or vomiting

• Stiff neck

• Sensitivity to light

• Loss of appetite

• Skin rash

• Respiratory and digestive discomfort

• Lethargy

A newborn or infant with meningitis may exhibit the following symptoms:

• High fever

• Stiffness in the neck and body

• Feeling sleepy most of the time

• Crying constantly

• Poor feeding and not waking up to eat

• Vomiting

• Being inactive

• A bulge on the top of the head

Causes

Meningitis infection happens when a bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite spreads in the body through bloodstream or nerve endings and reaches the spinal cord or brain. The organism or pathogen then starts to live in the protective layers or fluid around these body parts, which may result in a severe infection.

The viruses and bacteria that cause meningitis are:

• Meningococcal bacteria

• Haemophilus influenzae Type B bacteria

• Pneumococcal bacteria

• Mumps virus

• Enteroviruses or the viruses that cause a stomach infection

• Herpes simplex virus

Risk Factors

Although anyone can get meningitis infection, the condition is more common in people with low immunity. Some risk factors of meningitis are listed below.

• Age:

The condition is commonly diagnosed among the following age groups —

◦ Infants or children less than 1 year old

◦ Teens and young adults between 16 to 23 years old

◦ Senior citizens or people over 65 years of age

• Medical conditions:

Suffering from certain medical conditions can weaken one’s immunity and increase the risk of meningitis. For example, people diagnosed with diabetes and AIDS are at a higher risk of suffering from meningitis.

• Not getting vaccinated:

People who are not vaccinated for meningitis are at an increased risk.

• Immunosuppressant drugs:

Taking immunosuppressant drugs is also a risk factor.

• Living in a crowded setting:

Certain people, such as college students living in dormitories, children in childcare facilities and boarding schools, and military personnel, are at a higher risk of meningitis.

• Getting the spleen removed:

Although rare, splenectomy also increases the risk of meningitis infection.

Diagnosis

Meningitis is usually diagnosed with the help of the following tests —

• Physical examination:

If the medical practitioner suspects meningitis, they will look out for signs and symptoms.

• Blood test:

This is done to check the presence of bacteria or viruses.

• CT scan:

Doctors advise a CT scan to check for swelling and other problems with the brain.

• Lumbar puncture:

In this test, the healthcare practitioner inserts a hollow needle near the spinal column and withdraws some fluid from there. This fluid is then checked for bacteria or viruses.

Treatment

Depending on severity of the condition, meningitis is either treated at home or in the hospital.

A) Home Treatment

Mild cases of meningitis caused by a viral infection can be treated at home in the following ways:

• Taking the prescribed painkillers for body pain and headache

• Taking the prescribed medicines for nausea or vomiting

• Getting adequate rest

The symptoms of the condition usually improve within 7 to 10 days. However, if you notice the symptoms worsening each day, you must talk to your doctor immediately.

B) Treatment at the hospital

Almost all cases of bacterial meningitis are treated in the hospital. The condition is life-threatening and can cause severe health complications. Therefore, a patient is admitted to the hospital for close monitoring and timely medical assistance. Some severe cases of viral meningitis may also require hospitalisation.

The treatment may include the following:

• Giving oxygen through a face mask

• Administering antibiotics and fluids into the vein. Fluids are given to prevent dehydration.

• In case of swelling around the brain, the patient is given steroid medication.

Meningitis patients may require hospitalisation for a week or more. However, severe cases of the condition may require hospitalisation and treatment for several weeks.

Prevention

Meningitis-causing bacteria and viruses can spread from one person to another through coughing, sneezing, sharing utensils, etc. Therefore, it is important to take the necessary precautions to stay safe. Some tips that can help prevent meningitis are —

1. Keep your hands clean:

Wash your hands with soap and water often, especially before cooking and eating. You must also wash your hands after using the washroom and petting animals.

2. Avoid sharing personal items:

Do not share personal items, such as toothbrushes, lip balm, etc., with anyone.

3. Don’t share your food and utensils:

Sharing foods, drinks, straws and eating utensils can spread the condition. Therefore, make sure you don’t share them with anyone.

4. Boost your immune system:

This is important to stay safe from infections and other conditions. Make sure you consume a nutritious diet, get 7-8 hours of sleep every day, and exercise regularly.

5. Wear a mask:

If you are visiting a crowded place, wear a mask to stay safe. This is particularly important if you have a weak immune system.