Meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, called meninges; some doctors refer to meningitis as spinal meningitis. Meningitis can be caused by a variety of factors, like fungi, protozoa or other parasites, but it is most often caused by either a virus or a bacterium. Doctors make a clear distinction between bacterial and viral meningitis. Viral meningitis most often is much less severe than its bacterial counterpart, and actually does not really need any kind of specific treatment; bacterial meningitis, on the other hand, is less common but much more serious, sometimes leading to learning disabilities, hearing loss, or even brain damage.

The bacteria and viruses responsible for meningitis are actually commonly found in other parts of the body and cause other types of illnesses much more frequently than they cause meningitis. When infections are particularly strong, or when the immune system is particularly weak, however, these microorganisms can spread to the meninges from their primary sites of infection. Infections can begin in the skin, urinary system or digestive tract, though respiratory tract infections are most often credited with the spread of meningitis. Some bacteria, like those that cause otitis media for example, can directly spread to the meninges instead of having to travel through the circulatory system.

Viral and bacterial meningitis symptoms often resemble the flu and, indeed, many cases go undiagnosed because people just assume that they’ve caught the flu. Viral meningitis is most often caused by an enterovirus, or viruses that infect the digestive system, though many other viruses, such as the herpes virus, can also cause meningitis. Though viral meningitis can occur at any age, it is more common in children.

The signs and symptoms of meningitis include high fever, stiff neck and headache. Nausea, confusion, vomiting and fatigue may also be meningitis symptoms. Late onset symptoms of meningitis may also include seizures. Children under two years of age may only appear very lethargic and irritable, and may vomit or refuse to eat. If you have these spinal meningitis symptoms, see a doctor; the doctor will perform a spinal tap, which removes spinal fluid to determine the presence of bacteria or viruses.

The bacteria and viruses that cause meningitis are not as contagious as those causing the common cold, but they can be spread through the exchange of fluids from your throat or respiratory tract. The bacteria that cause meningococcal meningitis can be spread to people who have prolonged contact with an infected individual. Another serious type of meningitis that can only be spread among people with severely weakened immune symptoms is cryptococcal meningitis, caused by a fungus.

See your physician immediately if you suspect you have meningitis; you can also see your physician simply for information. Ask “what is meningitis”, the history of meningitis and take a look at some meningitis bacteria pictures. Dogs are also susceptible to canine meningitis, and you should take them to the vet if they display any of the symptoms.