How Soon Must You Seek Treatment for Meningitis?

Meningitis is a potentially fatal illness caused by viral, bacterial and fungal infections. Immediate treatment is required to prevent or reduce the risk of complications such as memory loss, deafness and learning disabilities.

Symptoms

• Meningitis symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, stiff neck and sensitivity to light.

Causes

• Viral meningitis is the most common and least serious form. It is a result of a virus such as mumps, measles, herpes or the West Nile virus. Bacterial meningitis is caused by bacteria traveling to the spinal cord via the bloodstream, or an ear or sinus infection. Bacterial meningitis is very serious and requires immediate treatment. Fungal meningitis is rare and usually occurs in people with compromised immune systems, but can be fatal without proper treatment.

Risk Factors

• Pregnancy, living in a community setting (such as a dormitory) or a weak immune system will place you at a higher risk for meningitis. Bacterial meningitis most often strikes teenagers and young adults.

Treatment

• You must seek treatment for meningitis immediately so that your doctor can determine its type. It is crucial to diagnose bacterial meningitis very early to avoid complications. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotic injections; treatments for brain swelling, shock and dehydration may also be needed. In contrast, viral meningitis clears up within a couple of weeks with only bed rest and over-the-counter drugs. Fungal meningitis is treated with anti-fungal medication.

Prevention

• You can help to prevent meningitis by washing your hands, covering your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough, and strengthening your immune system.