All you need to know about meningitis

All you need to know about meningitis

Meningitis is an inflammation of the fluid and three membranes around the brain and spinal cord.

The most common causes of meningitis are viral and bacterial infections.

Few other causes may include cancer, fungi and drug-induced reactions.

Some viral and bacterial meningitis are contagious and can be transmitted by coughing, sneezing, or close contact.

The symptoms of meningitis include altered mental status, nausea, sensitivity to light, headache, fever,chills and stiff neck.

The infection is caused when a bacterium, fungus, virus, or parasite spreads through the body through the bloodstream until it reaches the brain, or spinal cord.

Bacterial meningitis requires immediate hospitalization. Early diagnosis and treatment will prevent brain damage and death.

While Fungal meningitis is treated with antifungal agents, a viral meningitis may resolve on its own with intravenous antiviral medications.

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