About Meningitis

• Meningitis is a serious health condition in which the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges, become inflamed. Meningitis can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, but in some cases it can be caused by drug use. Meningitis is spread through communicable infections, so washing hands and covering your mouth when coughing and sneezing is important to prevent it from spreading. Meningitis is characterized by high fevers and severe headaches. Drowsiness and vomiting can also occur. Stiffness of the neck is also a telltale sign of meningitis. If you suspect you have meningitis, see a doctor immediately because it can lead to serious complications such as seizures, brain damage and death.
  
  

Bacterial Meningitis Treatment

• Bacterial meningitis can be treated with antibiotics. Since meningitis is a severe infection, antibiotics are administered intravenously. Doctors can also prescribe medication to combat symptoms such as high fever and headaches. They might also prescribe or other steps to reduce the severity of symptoms, such as a regimen of food and water to combat dehydration and maintain energy levels. It is imperative that bacterial meningitis treatment be started as soon as possible after infection because allowing the infection to go on untreated increases the risk of serious complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, properly treated bacterial meningitis has a death rate below 15 percent. Immunization can help protect against certain types of bacterial meningitis.
  
  

Viral Meningitis Treatment

• Viral meningitis cannot be treated with antibiotics. For viral infections, bed rest for a few weeks is usually adequate to overcome the illness. Over-the-counter medications can be used to reduce the severity of fevers and body aches. Plenty of water should be consumed and mild foods should be eaten to maintain strength and reduce the chance of upset stomach. Meningitis can cause a loss of appetite, so it is important to make sure to eat enough regardless of hunger. In some cases, an antiviral medication might be prescribed to combat the infection. Like bacterial meningitis, vaccines can be used to protect against certain types of viral meningitis.