Meningitis
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for regarding Meningitis.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis or meningococcal meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation in the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. People of all ages can contract it, but it is more commonly spread among infants and children. Meningitis poses a health threat when not treated promptly.
What are the symptoms of meningitis?
- When infected with meningitis, symptoms begin to appear suddenly and vary according to age, but the most common symptoms include:
- High fever.
- Severe headache.
- Difficulty concentrating and reduced awareness.
- Stiff neck.
- Seizures.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Lack of appetite.
- Rash in some cases.
Vomiting.
- Some symptoms in infants and children may include:
- Swelling in the fontanelle area (the soft spot on the top of the head).
- Stiff body.
- Constant crying.
- Lethargy or a tendency to sleep continuously.
Difficulty waking the child from sleep.
- What causes meningitis?
Meningitis infection results from bacterial, viral infections, or other microbes, transmitted through the respiratory secretions of an infected person via coughing, sneezing, kissing, or sharing personal items.
What are the diagnostic methods?:
- The doctor takes the medical history, performs a clinical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Laboratory tests for urine and blood.
- Cerebrospinal fluid examination.CT scan).
- Brain imaging using a computed tomography scan (CT scan).
Nasal and throat secretion swabs.
What are the treatment methods for meningitis?
- Treatment takes place through various procedures or as needed and may include the following:
Meningitis is treated under medical care and observation, which may last for at least a week, depending on the type of infection, the condition, and the severity. Patients with meningitis are primarily treated with antibiotics.
- What are the prevention methods for meningitis?
- It is recommended to get vaccinated against meningitis as a preventive measure by God’s will.
Preventive injections or medications are given to individuals who have come into contact with a person diagnosed with meningitis for a short period, as determined by the treating physician.
What are the complications of meningitis?
- Recovery from meningitis is possible after treatment, but the infection also poses a health threat, causing complications that include:
- Hearing loss – either partial or complete.
- Epilepsy.
- Difficulties in concentration.
- Balance disorders.
- Learning difficulties and behavioral problems.
- Vision loss – either complete or partial.
- Bone and joint problems.
Kidney problems.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see a doctor immediately if you exhibit any of the aforementioned symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to prevent meningitis?
There is a meningitis vaccine, which is considered one of the most important vaccinations in the child’s immunization schedule. It protects, by God’s will, against one of the most dangerous types of bacteria causing meningitis. A booster dose can also be taken before going for Hajj and Umrah.
I have been in contact with someone recently diagnosed with meningitis, but I have no symptoms. What should I do?
