Health

What is Meningitis?

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Meningitis is a condition that can have serious consequences if not treated promptly. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and non-infectious sources, each requiring its own specific treatment.

Meningitis is an infection that leads to inflammation of the membranes, known as meninges, which envelop your brain and spinal cord. This inflammation often results in symptoms such as fever, headache, and a stiff neck. While viral infections are the most common cause of meningitis, it can also be triggered by parasites, bacteria, or fungi. Some cases of meningitis resolve on their own within a few weeks, while others can be life-threatening and require immediate intervention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for full recovery. If you or a loved one shows signs of meningitis, it is essential to consult a specialist, such as the best neurologist in Delhi at Apollo Hospital Indraprastha. Continue reading to learn more about meningitis and its treatment options.

Symptoms of Meningitis

Early symptoms of meningitis can resemble the flu and may appear within a few hours or develop over a few days. In individuals older than two years, possible symptoms include:

  • Stiff neck
  • Sudden high fever
  • Intense headache
  • Confusion or difficulty concentrating
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Drowsiness or difficulty waking up
  • Lack of appetite or thirst
  • Skin rash (in certain types of meningitis)

The symptoms of meningitis are different in children under the age of two. Newborns and infants may exhibit the following signs:

  • Persistent crying
  • High fever
  • Extreme irritability or sleepiness 
  • Difficulty waking from sleep
  • Not waking to eat
  • Inactivity or sluggishness
  • Poor feeding
  • A bulging soft spot on the top of the head
  • Vomiting
  • Stiffness in the neck and body 
  • Infants with meningitis might be challenging to soothe and may cry more when held

What Causes Meningitis?

Different types of meningitis have different causes. 

  1. Viral Meningitis: Viral infections are the most frequent cause of meningitis. Most cases are due to a group of viruses called enteroviruses. Other viruses, including HIV, mumps virus, herpes simplex virus, and West Nile virus, can also lead to viral meningitis.
  1. Bacterial Meningitis: This type of meningitis occurs when bacteria enter your bloodstream and travel to your spinal cord and brain. It can also happen if bacteria directly infect the meninges, often due to a skull fracture, a sinus or ear infection, or, in rare cases, certain surgeries. The most common bacteria responsible for bacterial meningitis include streptococcus pneumoniae, neisseria meningitidis, haemophilus influenzae, and listeria monocytogenes.
  1. Chronic Meningitis: This long-lasting form of the condition can be caused by slow-growing organisms like fungi and mycobacterium tuberculosis. These organisms invade the membranes and fluid surrounding the brain, leading to the gradual onset of symptoms over two weeks or more. 
  1. Parasitic Meningitis: Parasites can lead to a rare form of meningitis known as eosinophilic meningitis. This type of meningitis can also result from a tapeworm infection in the brain. Another rare form, amoebic meningitis, is sometimes contracted through swimming in freshwater and can rapidly become life-threatening.
  1. Fungal Meningitis: It may mimic acute bacterial meningitis. It’s often contracted by breathing in fungal spores that may be found in soil, decaying wood and bird droppings.
  1. Other Causes: This disease can also arise from non-infectious causes, like drug allergies, certain types of cancer, chemical reactions, and inflammatory conditions such as sarcoidosis. These factors can lead to inflammation of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain, even in the absence of an infection.

Meningitis Treatment

Meningitis treatment varies depending on its cause. Bacterial meningitis requires antibiotics, while antifungal medications are used for fungal meningitis. For some viral forms, such as those caused by influenza or herpesvirus, antiviral medications may be effective. Non-infectious meningitis is treated by addressing the underlying condition. In cases where specific treatments aren’t available, medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. Common treatments include:

  • Antifungals for fungal infections
  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections
  • Antivirals for certain viral infections
  • Pain relievers for discomfort
  • Corticosteroids like dexamethasone to reduce inflammation
  • IV fluids to maintain hydration

Recovery time can vary, with some patients feeling better within a few days to a week, while others may take weeks or even months for full recovery.
Meningitis is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications and ensure full recovery. The causes of meningitis vary, including viral, bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and non-infectious origins, each requiring specific treatment approaches. Early recognition of symptoms and seeking medical attention are crucial steps. For those in the city, consulting with the best neurologist in Delhi at Apollo Hospital Indraprastha can provide access to expert care and guidance in managing this potentially life-threatening condition. Prioritising timely medical intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of meningitis.”

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