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Introduction
Meningitis is an
inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that
surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can
be divided into aseptic meningitis, which is
non-bacterial meningitis, and bacterial meningitis.
Causes
Meningitis is almost always caused by another
bacterial or viral infection that began elsewhere in
the body, like the ears, sinuses or upper respiratory
tract. The bacterial form of meningitis is an
extremely serious illness that requires immediate
medical care. If not treated quickly, it can lead to
death within hours or to permanent brain damage.
Symptoms
- Fever
- Headache
- Stiff neck
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Seizure
- Skin rash, Diarrhea, or Lung Infection
Symptoms of viral meningitis are milder than
those of bacterial meningitis, and may only consist
of headache, fever, or a sore neck.
Treatment
Antibiotic medications are the most important element of
treatment against bacterial agents of meningitis.
Antiviral drugs may be helpful in shortening the
course of viral meningitis, and antifungal medications
are available as well.
Other treatments for meningitis involve decreasing
inflammation and paying careful attention to the
balance of fluids, glucose, sodium, potassium, oxygen,
and carbon dioxide in the patient's system.
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