Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that affects the protective membranes, known as meninges, that surround the brain and spinal cord. The inflammation of these membranes can be caused by bacteria, viruses or other pathogens.

Vaccines are available that can help prevent certain types of meningitis, but early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a good prognosis.

Types of Meningitis

Meningitis can be caused by several different pathogens, and the type of meningitis a person has will affect their symptoms and treatment options. The three most common types of meningitis are:.

Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is one of the most serious types of meningitis, and it requires prompt medical treatment to avoid complications.

The most common bacteria that cause meningitis in the United States are Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). Symptoms of bacterial meningitis can include:.

Fever
Severe headache
Stiff neck
Confusion or disorientation
Nausea or vomiting
Sensitivity to bright light
Lethargy or fatigue
Rash (in some cases)

Bacterial meningitis can quickly become life-threatening, so anyone who suspects that they or someone they know may have meningitis should seek medical attention right away.

Viral Meningitis

Viral meningitis is caused by a virus and is typically less severe than bacterial meningitis. The symptoms of viral meningitis are similar to bacterial meningitis, but they may be milder and develop more gradually.

Some common viruses that can cause meningitis include enteroviruses, herpes simplex virus, and West Nile virus. Symptoms of viral meningitis can include:.

Fever
Sore throat
Headache
Stomachache
Rash (in some cases)
Photophobia (sensitivity to light)

Most cases of viral meningitis are not life-threatening, and they will typically resolve on their own within a week or two. However, anyone with suspected meningitis should still seek medical attention to confirm the diagnosis.

Fungal Meningitis

Fungal meningitis is a rare but serious type of meningitis that can be caused by different types of fungi. This type of meningitis is most common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer.

Symptoms of fungal meningitis can include:.

Fever
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Stiff neck
Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Confusion or disorientation
Seizures (in some cases)

Fungal meningitis can be difficult to treat, and it can be fatal in some cases. Treatment typically involves antifungal medications and supportive care.

Meningitis in Children

Meningitis can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in infants and young children. Children under the age of five are at the highest risk of developing meningitis, and parents should be vigilant for signs and symptoms of the condition.

Symptoms of meningitis in children can include:.

High fever
Stiff neck or neck pain
Irritability or fussiness
Lethargy or difficulty waking up
Poor appetite
Nausea or vomiting
Seizures (in some cases)
Bulging fontanelle (soft spot on the head)

Because meningitis can quickly become serious, parents should seek medical attention for their child right away if they suspect meningitis may be present.

Vaccines are available that can help prevent certain types of meningitis, and parents should discuss vaccination with their pediatrician.

Meningitis in Adults

Meningitis can also affect adults, and adults over 60 years old are at higher risk of developing the condition. Adults of any age who have weakened immune systems or who have had close contact with someone with meningitis may also be at higher risk.

Symptoms of meningitis in adults can include:.

High fever
Headache
Stiff neck or neck pain
Nausea or vomiting
Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Confusion or disorientation
Seizures (in some cases)
Rash (in some cases)

Adults who suspect that they may have meningitis should seek medical attention right away, as prompt treatment is important for a good prognosis.

Vaccines are available that can help prevent certain types of meningitis, and adults should discuss vaccination with their healthcare provider.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing meningitis typically involves a combination of blood tests, imaging studies, and a spinal tap (also called a lumbar puncture). A spinal tap involves inserting a needle into the lower back to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for testing.

CSF is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, and it can help diagnose meningitis by revealing certain abnormalities.

Treatment for meningitis typically involves hospitalization and supportive care, including IV fluids, antibiotics, antiviral medications, pain relief, and sometimes steroids.

The exact treatment approach will depend on the type of meningitis a person has and the severity of their symptoms. Some people may require ongoing rehabilitation or long-term treatment to manage complications of meningitis, such as hearing loss or neurological deficits.

Prevention

Preventing meningitis involves taking steps to reduce the risk of infection and getting vaccinated against certain types of meningitis. Some key prevention measures include:.

Washing hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Getting vaccinated against meningitis

Vaccines are available that can help prevent certain types of meningitis, including Hib vaccine, meningococcal vaccine, and pneumococcal vaccine.

Routine vaccination is recommended for children, and adults who are at higher risk of developing meningitis should discuss vaccination with their healthcare provider.