Home  Meningitis
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Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes (called meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord.
- Meningitis may be caused by many different viruses and bacteria, or by diseases that cause inflammation of tissues of the body without infection.
- In meningococcal meningitis, (also known as cerebrospinal fever and spotted fever), the symptoms may appear suddenly causing widespread infection and blood poisoning (septicaemia), and can be rapidly fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly in hospital
- In meningococcal meningitis, there can be a characteristic rash of red or brownish pin prick spots caused by blood under the skin (haemorrhagic rash) which can develop into purple bruises and blood blisters.
- GLASS TUMBLER TEST FOR HAEMORRHAGIC RASH - If a glass tumbler is pressed firmly against this haemorrhagic rash, the rash will not fade, it will remain visible through the glass. If this happens you should seek medical advice immediately.
- Meningitis is very serious and can be life-threatening (see the section above on meningococcal meningitis and its diagnosis).
- Symptoms of meningitis may appear suddenly.
- Symptoms often include high fever, severe and persistent headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, nausea and vomiting.
- Changes in behaviour such as confusion, sleepiness, and difficulty waking up are extremely important symptoms and may require emergency treatment.
- In infants, symptoms of meningitis may include irritability or tiredness, poor feeding and fever.
This will vary depending on the type of meningitis, certain bacterial forms being the most severe (see below).
- If meningitis is suspected, medical advice should be sought immediately. Because some of the early symptoms might be similar to other conditions, a high level of suspicion is required, especially with children.
- Prevention is better than cure! Effective vaccines are now available against some types of meningitis.
- Individuals with bacterial meningitis are hospitalised and treated with antibiotics given directly into a vein, in order to achieve the rapid high blood and tissue levels of antibiotic that this life-threatening condition requires.
- People with viral meningitis may not require specific treatment, but they are usually observed in a hospital and examined to ensure they do not have bacterial meningitis.
Other medicines used to control the symptoms may include: - Anticonvulsant medications to prevent or treat seizures.
- Corticosteroid drugs to reduce brain swelling and inflammation.
- Sedative drugs for irritability or restlessness.
Any medical information on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a health care professional. Click here for more important information. |
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