If you or someone you know is feeling sick and has a stiff neck, they may have meningitis. It’s important to get checked out and treated as soon as possible because it can be serious and can cause brain damage, paralysis, or even death.
Viral and Bacterial Meningitis
There are different types of meningitis, with viral infections more common than bacterial ones. These can be spread through coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing eating utensils and toothbrushes. People with weakened immune systems, like those with AIDS or cancer, have an increased risk of getting these infections. They may also need special antiviral medicines to help with their symptoms and recovery.
Symptoms of meningitis often begin within 24 hours of being exposed to the bacteria, and then quickly progress. They include a fever, a headache, stiffness in the back or neck, and confusion. They can be very painful and difficult to treat.
Your doctor will test your fluids to check for meningitis and to find out what’s causing it. This usually involves a spinal tap (also called a lumbar puncture), in which a needle is inserted into your spine to withdraw fluid from around your spinal cord.
The fluid is then analyzed in a lab. Your doctor will look for sugar and protein levels, white blood cells, and other things that can help diagnose the infection.
They’ll also examine your spinal fluid under a microscope to look for bacteria. If they identify the bacteria with this, you’ll start treatment right away with antibiotics and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
You’ll also need lots of fluids to help prevent dehydration. The type of meningitis you have will affect the treatment.
Medications for bacterial meningitis
Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics that are designed to fight the specific bacteria that caused your illness. Your medication may be given in a pill, or it could be an infusion through a tube into your veins. A doctor will tell you how much to take and how long to take it for.
If you have bacterial meningitis, your treatment will depend on the type of bacteria and how severe your illness is. Your doctor will also look at your other health conditions to see if they might be a cause.
Vaccines for bacterial meningitis are available in some areas of the world and can save lives. The Hib vaccine, for example, has reduced the number of cases in the United States.
Prevention
The best way to protect yourself from meningitis is to wash your hands well and always wear protective clothing. You can also keep your immune system healthy by getting immunized with the vaccines that are recommended for your age.
Vaccines can also be useful for adults who have a weak immune system, such as those with HIV or cancer. They can also help prevent meningitis in newborns, pregnant women, and other groups at high risk of developing the infection.
