Guide To Serious Nervous System Disorders

Meningitis

Meningitis occurs when the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord become inflamed. Viruses and bacterial infections are the most common causes of meningitis, though can also be caused by fungi, chemical irritation, allergies to medications, or cancer. Some types of viral and bacterial meningitis are contagious, and they can be transmitted to others through close contact, sneezing, or coughing. Bacterial meningitis symptoms are typically the most severe, and symptoms in adults may include a stiff neck, sensitivity to light, skin rashes, headaches, fever, and lethargy. These symptoms usually appear suddenly, and it is important to seek emergency medical care right away. To diagnose meningitis, doctors will need to perform a lumbar puncture, and they may also do blood cultures, chest x-rays, and a CT scan. Treatment for meningitis depends on the cause. Bacterial meningitis requires emergency hospitalization so the patient can be treated with intravenous antibiotics. While viral meningitis might resolve on its own, some patients will still need intravenous antiviral medicines. Cases of fungal meningitis are treated with antifungal agents. A vaccine is available to protect patients against several types of bacterial meningitis.

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