How to Treat HSV Meningitis

Meninges refer to thin membranes that envelope the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is a disease characterized by inflammation of the meninges that may be a relatively mild case caused by viruses or a more serious one caused by bacteria. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) meningitis is a disease that is closely linked to Mollaret’s meningitis. It is a benign recurrent irritation of the meninges due to the existence of herpes simplex virus in the patient’s cerebrospinal fluid or CSF (a colorless liquid that surrounds and provides nutrients to the brain and spinal cord). Patients with HSV meningitis usually manifest the following symptoms: fever, nausea, stiffness of the neck, severe headache, tiredness and oversensitivity to bright lights. Unlike meningitis caused by bacterial infection, HSV meningitis often shows no signs of rashes on the skin.

Things You'll Need

• Antiviral medications
• Anticonvulsant drugs
• Pain medications
• Sedatives

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Instructions

• 1

  Get enough rest. Patients with HSV meningitis are advised to have plenty of bed rest, preferably in a quiet and dimmed room to promote a stress-free environment and overall relaxation.

• 2

  Increase fluid supply. Intravenous fluid is often prescribed on HSV meningitis patients to provide nutrients within the system and to prevent dehydration.

• 3

  Take some helpful medications. Analgesics are the basic prescription to alleviate existing pain and fever among patients with mild cases of HSV meningitis.

• 4

  Administer an antiviral drug. In many cases, intravenous application of the antiviral drug acyclovir is conducted on children or infants with severe HSV meningitis.

• 5

  Give some anticonvulsant drugs. Anticonvulsant drugs, such as phenytoin, may be given to prevent the occurrence of seizures.

• 6

  Reduce brain inflammation with corticosteroids. This is more often administered on severe cases of HSV meningitis where brain inflammation (encephalitis) may take place. Sedatives and pain medications may also be given to provide more comfort on to the patient's condition.