Meningitis is a rare infection that affects the delicate membranes -- called meninges -- that cover the brain and spinal cord. You or your children can catch it.
Types of Meningitis
Bacterial meningitis
It's an extremely serious illness. You or your child will need to get medical help right away. It can be life-threatening or lead to brain damage unless you get quick treatment.
Several kinds of bacteria can cause bacterial meningitis. The most common ones in the U.S. are:
A bacteria called Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) was a common cause of meningitis in babies and young children until the Hib vaccine became available for infants. There are also vaccines for Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Experts recommend that all children get them, as well as all adults who are at a higher risk for the disease.
Bulge on the soft area on the top of the baby’s head
Poor ability to feed
Crankiness
Treatment for Meningitis
Your treatment will depend on the type of meningitis you have.
Bacterial meningitis needs treatment with antibiotics right away. The doctor might give you a general, or broad-spectrum, antibiotic even before they’ve found the exact bacteria that caused your illness. Once they do, they’ll change to a drug that targets the specific bacteria they find with the spinal tap. You might also get corticosteroids to ease inflammation.
Viral meningitis usually goes away on its own without treatment. Your doctor might tell you to stay in bed, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter pain medicines if you have a fever or aches. If a virus like herpes or influenza caused your illness, you might take antiviral medication.
Antifungal medications can treat fungal meningitis. There is a possibility of being hospitalized if you are dehydrated or have severe symptoms.
Meningitis Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your medical history and do a physical exam, including checking your neck for stiffness and looking for a skin rash that might suggest a bacterial infection. They will also need to do tests that can include: