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Aftereffects of Meningitis

Meningitis refers to the condition where the lining around the brain and spinal cord (meninges) become inflamed. Septicemia is the blood-poisoning form of the disease. Meningitis and septicemia can kill within hours. The symptoms typically are fever, headache and stiffness of the neck, which means that medical attention is sometimes not sought early enough. The longer the disease goes without being treated, the higher the risk for seizures and permanent neurological damage. Most cases are caused by a viral infection but can also be caused by bacterial and fungal infections.

  1. Aftereffects

    • Meningitis survivors usually return to their normal health, however sometimes complications arise and serious damage occurs. The following list are examples of after effects that may occur:
      - hearing loss
      - memory loss
      - blindness
      - headaches
      - speech problems
      - learning disabilities
      - coordination problems
      - dizziness
      - loss of balance
      - loss of, or changes in, sight
      - seizures
      - weakness
      - paralysis
      - behavior problems
      - brain damage
      - kidney failure
      - adrenal gland failure

    Types of Meningitis: Bacterial

    • Bacterial meningitis is the most damaging and is caused by bacteria entering the bloodstream and migrating to the brain and spinal cord or by a bacterial invasion of the meninges, which can be caused by ear or sinus infections.

      The bacterias which cause meningitis are:
      - Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus). Common cause of pneumonia and ear and sinus infections.
      - Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus). Highly contagious, this bacteria often enters your blood from an upper respiratory infection.
      - Haemophilus influenzae (haemophilus). Less common now that Hib vaccines are available as part of routine childhood immunizations, this infection usually comes after an ear infection, upper respiratory infection or sinusitis.
      - Listeria monocytogenes (listeria). Listeria is found everywhere including the soil and contaminated foods which include soft cheeses and luncheon meats. The bacteria is also carried by many animals. Most people are resistant to listeria, however, it poses a threat to unborn children and elderly people.

    Types of Meningitis: Viral

    • Viruses cause most cases of meningitis. 90 percent of cases in the United States are cased by enteroviruses. Symptoms are headache, rash, joint pain and sore throat. There is no treatment and symptoms usually go away in a week or so.

    Types of Meningitis: Fungal

    • Fungal meningitis is quite rare and usually affects people with immune deficiencies such a AIDS or cancer patients. Untreated, it can be deadly.

    Risk Factors

    • Risk factors are:
      - Not completing the childhood vaccine.
      - Age. Young children and those in their early to mid-20s.
      - Living in close proximity to many other people. For example, college dorms and child care facilities.
      - Working with animals, which puts you in contact with the listeria virus.
      - Pregnancy, which puts you at risk for an infection caused by the listeria virus.
      - A compromised immune system.

    Decrease Risk

    • Meningitis is often spread the same way as any other contagious disease; through coughing, sneezing, kissing or sharing drinks, food, a toothbrush or even a cigarette.

      To decrease your risk of meningitis:
      - Wash your hands often especially before eating.
      - Keep your immune system strong through sleep, exercise and a healthy diet.
      - Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
      - If you're pregnant, avoid soft cheeses and cook meat thoroughly.
      - Make sure your immunizations are up to date. Check with your doctor if you are unsure.

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