Hello, it’s your health buddy! Let’s feel better together. Today, I’m here to share some symptom insights and helpful tips about Meningitis. Let’s dive in!
When high fever, severe headache, and chills strike together, it’s easy to assume it’s just the flu. Most people wouldn’t immediately think of meningitis as the cause.
However, meningitis can become a serious threat if not treated in time. Because its early symptoms are so similar to those of a cold or flu, it’s often misunderstood. So what exactly is meningitis?
Ren**, a 35-year-old woman living in North Island, New Zealand, was diagnosed with acute meningitis just ten days before her due date. She experienced a high fever, intense headache, and muscle aches, assuming it was the flu. Since she was pregnant, only fever reducers were prescribed, and she returned home. However, her condition worsened overnight with her temperature rising to 39°C. She rushed to the ER. Slurred speech and blurred vision raised suspicions of meningitis. After undergoing a detailed examination, she was diagnosed with bacterial meningitis and had to undergo emergency delivery. She is currently receiving treatment.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation that affects both the brain and the protective membranes surrounding it, known as the meninges. These three layers of membranes protect the brain and central nervous system. Meningitis occurs when these areas become acutely infected by viruses or bacteria.
If not treated promptly, the infection can progress to encephalitis, lead to complications, and in severe cases, result in death.
What Causes It?
Meningitis is relatively common and can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. The most common type is acute viral meningitis, which occurs when a virus infiltrates the cerebrospinal fluid.
While viral meningitis typically improves on its own and is treated with fever reducers and fluids, it still requires medical attention. However, if the virus affects brain tissue itself, antiviral medications must be administered immediately.
What Are the Symptoms?
The main symptoms are high fever and severe headache. These symptoms usually appear suddenly, with fever rising above 38°C. The headache tends to be much more intense than what’s typically experienced with a cold or the flu. In rare cases, meningitis may cause focal neurological symptoms, such as facial paralysis.
If neurological issues develop, people may suddenly have difficulty walking, experience slurred speech due to problems with vocal function, or suffer from swallowing difficulties. In severe cases, it may even lead to a coma.
How Is It Treated?
Viral meningitis can usually be cured with sufficient rest and hydration. However, if caused by bacteria, tuberculosis bacteria, fungi, or parasites, prompt treatment with antibiotics is essential. Without it, symptoms like decreased consciousness, seizures, or paralysis can occur.
How to Prevent Meningitis
Frequent handwashing and brushing your teeth regularly are key to preventing meningitis. Since no vaccine currently exists for viral meningitis, children and the elderly—who are more vulnerable—need to be extra cautious.
Meningitis can be transmitted through contact with infected saliva, nasal discharge, or contaminated objects, especially in crowded or group living environments. In the case of bacterial meningitis, vaccination is the most effective prevention method.
Your health buddy is here for you. Wishing you a healthy and happy day ahead. Stay well!π
This content is for informational purposes only and does not hold any individual or entity legally responsible. For accurate diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, please visit a nearby medical institution. This does not represent my final medical opinion and may vary depending on specific circumstances and evolving medical perspectives.
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