Meningitis

The term meningitis refers to an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are known as ‘meninges’, which gives the disease its name. Mostly, this is caused by a viral infection, but sometimes bacterial or fungal infections may also cause the disease. It may also be caused by injury, the use of certain drugs, or cancer. Initially, a person may show generalized symptoms such as vomiting, headaches, or fever just like any mild disease such as the flu. This makes it difficult for doctors to diagnose meningitis. 

Based on the causes, there are five types of meningitis:

• Bacterial meningitis
• Parasitic meningitis (rare in developed countries)
• Viral meningitis
• Fungal meningitis
• Non-infectious meningitis (caused by non-pathogenic factors like cancer, lupus, or drugs)

Symptoms of meningitis may develop in any one above the age of two. It may also occur in newborns though the symptoms vary slightly. 

Symptoms Age 2 and Above:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Seizures
• Vomiting and nausea
• Difficulty in concentration
• Feeling sleepy or vacant
• Skin rash
• Sensitivity to light
• Lower appetite

Symptoms in Newborns:

• High fever
• Irritability
• Difficulty in falling asleep
• Constant crying
• More uncomfortable when touched or held
• Reduced level of activity
• Refusing to feed
• Bulge in fontanel (top of a baby’s head)

More importantly, these symptoms can develop suddenly, and if medical help is not given within a few hours, the condition may prove to be fatal; especially if a person has bacterial meningitis (50% cases result in death). Therefore, if you or someone you know has suddenly developed these symptoms, it is very important to immediately seek professional medical help. Doctors may send some spinal fluid to a laboratory for assessment to see if it is meningitis and the type of meningitis it may be. Once they know, doctors will start treatment usually with some form of antibiotics. 

If someone in your family or close acquaintances has meningitis, you should talk to your doctor about the precautions you should take to prevent an infection; since the bacterial, viral, and fungal types may be contagious. Typically, doctors will give you a vaccine injection to protect you against infection.