MAIN Health Diseases Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the fluid and membranes or meninges (muh-NIN-jeez) surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Of the various forms of meningitis, viral meningitis is the most common form, usually not life-threatening, and currently preventable with the use of certain vaccines.

Bacterial meningitis, however, is the most dangerous form and if not treated quickly enough may be fatal.

Therefore, it is always highly advisable to see a doctor for a timely diagnosis whenever any symptoms of meningitis occur.

Meningitis signs & symptoms

Severe headache is the most common symptom of bacterial meningitis, followed by neck stiffness, fever and confused mental state.

Besides the classic symptoms noted above, other symptoms of bacterial meningitis may include:

• leg or knee pain and stiffness
• inability to tolerate bright light or loud noises
• red "blood blister" rash
• seizures
• swelling of the cranial fontanelle (soft spot) in infants

Bacterial meningitis treatment

All suspected cases of bacterial meningitis, however mild, require emergency medical treatment. This typically includes an immediate dose of a broad-spectrum antibiotic and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.

Depending on symptoms, medical options may include treatment for brain swelling, shock, seizures or severe dehydration. Follow-up care, especially for infants and children, may also require frequent post-recovery check-ups to test for related neurological disorders such as hearing loss.

More about meningitis around the Web:

Meningitis - Good overview from Kidshealth.org with information on typical ages of children who may develop the disease, a list of common symptoms, when to call a doctor, with clear explanation of diagnosis and treatment options.

Infections of the Brain and Spinal Cord - Merck Manual Home Edition guide to acute bacterial meningitis and related diseases detailing signs and symptoms, causes, common treatment options.

Meningitis - MayoClinic.com - Extensive information on the disease citing signs & symptoms, causes, screening procedures & diagnosis, treatment & prevention, and more information on related complications.

MFA - Meningitis Foundation of America - The latest news & headlines related to meningitis plus a complete guide to causes, symptoms, treatment & support, online forum, event calendar, resource directory.

Meningitis Research Foundation - UK organization providing information on the meningitis and septicaemia in 22 languages with guides to symptoms, risk factors and treatment, 800 helpline, and calendar of fund-raising events throughout the UK and Ireland.

The Meningitis Centre - Australian parent organization offering support and information on the disease with complete guides to symptoms, treatment and available vaccinations, first-person stories, downloadable publications in pdf format, FAQ, related resources directory.

also see in Health & Disease -> Kids Health | Rashes

This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice.
All treatment decisions should be made by medical professionals.