Meningitis: Types, Warning Signs, Diagnosis and Treatment

Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the thin tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

Types

• Viral meningitis is the most common type. It develops when a virus enters the body through the nose or mouth and travels to the brain.
• Bacterial meningitis is rare but can be deadly. It usually begins with bacteria that cause a cold-like infection, and it can lead to stroke, hearing loss and brain damage, and harm other organs. Pneumococcal and meningococcal infections are its most common causes.

Anyone can get meningitis, but it is more common in people with weakened immune systems.

Warning signs

Meningitis can become serious very quickly. Get medical care right away for:

• a sudden high fever;
• a severe headache;
• a stiff neck; or
• nausea or vomiting.

Early treatment can help prevent serious problems, including death.

Diagnosis

Tests include blood tests, imaging, and a spinal tap to examine the cerebrospinal fluid.

Treatment and prevention

Antibiotics treat bacterial meningitis. Antiviral medicines may help with some types of viral meningitis, and other medicines can ease symptoms. Vaccines can prevent some of the bacterial infections that cause meningitis.

Sources

Based on "Meningitis," MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine, with information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; a work of the United States government in the public domain.