Meningitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Introduction

Meningitis is a serious infection of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are called meninges. Meningitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment. Learning about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of meningitis is important for staying healthy and recognizing this disease early.

Symptoms of Meningitis

The most common symptoms of meningitis are:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck

Other symptoms may include:

• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Sleepiness or trouble waking up
• Sensitivity to light
• Nausea and vomiting
• Skin rash in some cases

Babies with meningitis may be cranky, feed poorly, and have a stiff body and abnormal reflexes. The symptoms of meningitis can develop quickly or over a few days. Seek medical care immediately if you suspect meningitis.

Causes of Meningitis

Meningitis is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Viral meningitis is more common and less severe. Bacterial meningitis can be deadly if not treated right away.

Viruses and bacteria that cause meningitis can spread through:

• Coughing and sneezing
• Kissing
• Sharing utensils, food, or drinks

Fungal meningitis and parasitic meningitis are less common. They can happen in people with weakened immune systems.

Diagnosis of Meningitis

Doctors diagnose meningitis based on a person’s symptoms and physical exam. If they suspect meningitis, they will do tests, such as:

• Blood cultures to check for bacteria
• Imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI of the head
• A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to test cerebrospinal fluid

Lumbar puncture is the most important test to diagnose meningitis. A sample of cerebrospinal fluid is taken from the spine and sent to a lab for analysis.

Treatment of Meningitis

Meningitis needs fast treatment in a hospital. Treatment depends on the cause:

• Antibiotics for bacterial meningitis
• Antiviral drugs for viral meningitis (antibiotics don’t help with viruses)
• Antifungal medicine for fungal meningitis
• Steroids to reduce brain inflammation
• Breathing support, IV fluids, and other care

Treatment in the hospital can last for several days to weeks. Some people need ongoing rehabilitation after meningitis.

Prevention of Meningitis

The best way to prevent some types of bacterial meningitis is to get vaccinated. Vaccines are available for 3 common causes:

• Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus)
• Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)

Ask a doctor about which meningitis vaccines you or your children need.

You can also help prevent the spread of meningitis germs by:

• Washing hands often
• Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing
• Not sharing utensils, food, drinks, or personal items
• Staying healthy through good hygiene, rest, and nutrition