Important Information About The Signs And Symptoms Of Meningitis

English: Main symptoms of Meningitis. References are found in main article: Wikipedia:Meningitis#Signs_and_symptoms). Model: Mikael Häggström. To discuss image, please see Template talk:Häggström diagrams (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

By Celia Hall

Meningitis can be counted among the most risky diseases that can easily kill. Its main cause is the inflammation of cells that form a cover to the brains as well as the spinal cord. There is always a tendency to confuse the signs and symptoms of meningitis with those of flu. In fact, the disease may be initiated by flu and this therefore will need some knowledge to be able to differentiate them. The disease can be caused by virus, bacteria or fungi.

The toddlers and the young children are the most vulnerable group since they have an immune system that is not fully developed. Their parents should therefore pay much attention to any symptoms that they see. The signs include fever and cold hands and feet. Their skin gets rashes, they have unusual crying, they refuse food and sometimes they vomit.

In addition to the above, the baby or the child is unresponsive when picked up and they have a stiff neck. The minors are also observed to have a rapid breathing and may also have convulsions. Various researches have led to the discovery of a number of vaccines for children but not for all types. This is why knowing the symptoms is an important thing.

The saying that meningitis only affects the very young people is just a myth. Everybody is vulnerable, from the newly born to the very old. Many of the signs in adults are still the same in children. The only advantage is that adults can be able to say whenever they are feeling unwell. Fever, lack of appetite, vomiting, and rashes on the skin are observed. Severe headaches are common and a stiff neck, with a lot of pain when one tries to touch their chest using their chin.

The other symptoms in adults, which may now be different from those of children will include drowsiness. One feels very weak and has difficulties in waking up. The infected will also dislike bright lights, and might have confusion when carrying out their activities. These people are quick to anger, and will experience a lot of pain in their muscles. Convulsions are also very common.

Having the knowledge about the action to take is very important. If there are symptoms similar to the ones above, one should trust their instincts and take the necessary action. The patient should be taken to a medical center where samples of blood or the spinal fluid are taken and tested, in order to establish the type of. This will later be followed by treatment.

The treatment to be administered will depend on the causal type of the disease. Fungal meningitis, which mainly affects people with low immunity, is treated using anti-fungal medication and drugs to boost immunity. Viral meningitis can heal over a short period if the patient takes a lot of fluids, bed rest and some pain medicines. The bacterial type can be healed by use of antibiotics.

There is a very dire need for people all over the world to know the signs and symptoms of meningitis. People are advised to remain vigilant and to try and get medical help as quickly as possible whenever they suspect it.There are emergency numbers that people can call for quick assistance. This will help a lot in saving lives.

About the Author:

Read more about Important Information About The Signs And Symptoms Of Meningitis visiting our website.