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Meningitis: Know all about it(Helpingdoc) Today is World Meningitis Day. Meningitis is inflammation of the coverings of the brain and spinal cord, called meninges. Generally the tough layer of the brain tissue swells up due to viral or bacterial infections, but in some cases it occurs due to other organisms, illness or side-effect of some medication, environmental toxins like heavy metals. It generally occurs in children, teens and young adults. In many cases, adults with prolonged illness or weak immune system are common victims of Meningitis. This disease is contagious and the germs may be passed from one person to another by coughing, sneezing or close contact. Main Types and Causes of Meningitis Meningitis can be life-threatening and extremely serious if not treated on time. The two main types of this rare disease are bacterial and viral meningitis. The meningitis may occur due to other routine illness as bacteria and viruses may infect the urinary system, skin, respiratory tract, gastrointestinal tract. Viral Infection: It is fairly common and has flu-like symptoms which is why it often remains undiagnosed. It is not very serious but in many cases has caused prolonged seizures and fever. A simple treatment for the symptoms helps in recovering completely. Bacterial Infection: This type of infection is rare but can prove to be extremely life-threatening if not treated initially. In many cases it has been reported that even with suitable treatment and extreme caution bacterial meningitis can become fatal. In cases where bacterial meningitis progresses with speed, the affected patient can be dead in 24 hours or even less. In some cases, the bacteria may reach the meninges from a local infection as a severe ear or nasal sinusitis infection or even a severe head trauma. If the infection is left untreated it will cause swelling in brain which can result into permanent mental and physical disability, coma, or in worst case, even death. Symptoms The most common symptoms of Meningitis are: • Stiff and painful neck • Disability to touch your chin to your chest • Headache • Fever • Vomiting • Seizures • Sleepy Some other symptoms are: • Small babies may develop rashes, have fever. They may get cranky and cry when held or refuse to eat. • Young children will have flu-like symptoms with cough and troubled breathing. • Adults will suffer from headache and fever. If you or someone near you suffers from these symptoms, make sure you visit the doctor right away. A doctor's diagnosis can only suggest whether it is viral or bacterial meningitis. Some tests like Lumbar Puncture (also called Spinal Tap), blood tests, CT scan or MRI can be performed in order to diagnose meningitis and its nature. Meningitis can be prevented at a childhood stage only with the standard immunization for children which comprises of shots for Chickenpox, Measles, Influenza, Haemophilus and pneumococcal infections. Also you can consult your doctor regarding meningococcal vaccine to prevent bacterial meningitis. To consult a doctor or a general physician, consultant physician for Meningitis or any other illness, book a free appointment with : http://www.helpingdoc.com or mail us at info@helpingdoc.com Contact Details: HelpingDoc 2F, Elegance Tower, Jasola Business District New Delhi – 110025 Phone : +91 (0)11 4060 1489 Email : info@helpingdoc.com
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