Illustration of the signs and symptoms of meningitis. [Photo/previews.123rf.com]
Meningitis is an acute inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, collectively known as meninges. The meninges is the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It often starts off with the same symptoms as a common flu.
The two types of meningitis are viral and bacterial. Symptoms for both are usually the same. The bacterial kind is more dangerous and can be fatal if not treated quickly. With the viral type, you can get well in 2-3 weeks.
The viruses that cause meningitis spread from individual to individual as would a flu. Those who have a strong immunity like young adults are usually able to fight it off even without medication.
Symptoms of meningitis include fever, nausea, headaches, experiencing a stiff neck, photophobia, phonophobia and sometimes a deep red or purplish rash.
The viruses and bacteria can be carried to the meninges by the bloodstream from another part of the body like the lungs. A head injury (like a skull fracture), or an infected sinus or ear can cause the invasion.
When dealing with meningitis caused by viruses you can do a few things. Get adequate rest, drink plenty of fluids since fever dehydrates you and eat healthy to maintain your strength and energy. You can also keep the room dark since you'll probably be experiencing hypersensitivity to light which can worsen your headache.