Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites, in addition to non-infectious agents, such as trauma caused by severe blows to the head, for example. The symptoms of meningitis can appear between 2 and 10 days after contact with the infectious agent, however, it is more common to happen between 3 and 4 days after the infection, the main ones being:
- High and sudden fever;
- Strong headache that doesn’t go away;
- Nausea and vomiting;
- Pain and difficulty moving the neck;
- Dizziness and difficulty concentrating;
- Mental confusion;
- Difficulty touching the chin to the chest;
- Sensitivity to light and noise;
- Drowsiness and tiredness;
- Lack of appetite and thirst.
In the presence of signs and symptoms possibly indicative of meningitis, it is important that the general practitioner, infectologist or neurologist is consulted so that symptoms can be evaluated and tests performed to help confirm the infection and the cause of meningitis are indicated. then possible to start the most appropriate treatment. See more about meningitis and its causes.
Baby symptoms
In babies under 2 years of age, in addition to high fever, important signs and symptoms include:
- Constant crying;
- Irritability;
- Somnolence;
- Lack of courage;
- Lack of appetite;
- Stiffness in the body and neck.
In the case of babies less than 1 year old and the soft spot is still soft, the top of the head may be swollen, making it look like the baby has a bump due to a bump. Furthermore, in the case of meningococcal meningitis, it is also possible to notice the appearance of red spots on the skin, convulsions and paralysis, for example.
who is most at risk
People who are most at risk for meningitis are those who have the weakest immune system, whether due to age, as in the case of babies and the elderly, or to chronic diseases and infections. This is because in these conditions the immune system cannot act effectively against the infectious agent, with a greater chance of inflammation from meningitis and development of the disease.
How to confirm meningitis
The initial diagnosis of meningitis is made by the doctor based on the evaluation of the signs and symptoms presented by the person, and a physical evaluation can also be performed, which consists of performing movements with the neck to check for pain or discomfort, since the Neck stiffness is present in virtually all cases of meningitis.
To confirm the diagnosis of meningitis, it is usually indicated to perform a culture of CSF, also called CSF, based on the collection of this fluid through a lumbar puncture. From the analysis of this material, it is possible to verify if there are bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi that may be related to meningeal inflammation.
The doctor may also recommend additional tests such as blood, urine and imaging tests, such as computed tomography or MRI.
How is the treatment done
Treatment against meningitis is carried out in hospital with the use of medication according to the causative agent of the disease, and the use of antibiotics, antifungals, antiparasitic or antivirals may be indicated.
Carrying out the treatment in the hospital is important so that the person’s vital signs are monitored, to prevent complications and to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment, as it may be necessary to change the dose in order to promote the elimination of the infectious agent more effectively.
How to avoid
The main way to prevent meningitis is with the vaccine, which protects against various forms of the disease and which is recommended for newborns and children up to 12 years of age. Check out vaccines that protect against meningitis.
In addition, frequent hand washing and keeping rooms well-ventilated and clean also help prevent the spread of meningitis.
