Bacterial Meningitis

Symptoms and treatment of bacterial meningitis

Perhaps the most critical system in the human body is the central nervous system, which is comprised of the brain and spinal cord. It is the nervous system that allows the body to receive impulses from the brain and for the body to send back messages to the brain, as well. Those messages can relay sensations of pain, pleasure, warmth, coolness, etc.

Because of the criticalness of the central nervous system to the health and quality of life of the individual, it is imperative that an individual be on the alert for possible diseases that could affect the spinal cord and the fluid that surrounds the brain. One such disease is bacterial meningitis, which can have dramatic effects on the health of the central nervous system.

What Is Bacterial Meningitis?

The outer portion of the brain is known as the meninges; therefore, an inflammation of these membranes is known as meningitis. Bacterial meningitis, also known as bacterial spinal meningitis, occurs when the infection is caused by one of three types of bacteria: Haemophilus influenzae type b, Neisseria meningitidis or Streptococcus pneumoniae.

If not treated, bacterial meningitis can lead to hearing loss, paralysis, seizures, brain damage and even death.

Recognition and Treatment of Bacterial Meningitis

Typically, meningitis is signaled by a high fever, severe headache and stiff neck. Other bacterial meningitis symptoms can include vomiting, light sensitivity, disorientation, fatigue and nausea. Another classic symptom of bacterial meningitis is the inability of the individual to move their head down towards their chest.

Early detection is essential to effective bacterial meningitis treatment. Because the disease is spread through the air, it is important that outbreaks or potential outbreaks of meningitis are quickly reported. If a person exhibits symptoms or suspects that they’ve been in contact with an infected person, they should see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment. The usual course of treatment for bacterial meningitis is heavy doses of antibiotics.