Symptoms and treatment of meningitis

Symptoms of meningitis

The first sign of meningitis is a severe headache, which is completely different from a regular migraine. The pain becomes permanent and does not go away even after taking painkillers.

In addition, the following are observed:

• nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhea;
• stiffness, immobility of the neck;
• problems with concentration;
• increased sensitivity of the eyes to bright light;
• high temperature;
• constant drowsiness;
• convulsions;
• ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelids);
• strabismus.

The patient's skin is covered with a hemorrhagic rash, which is determined by the red or blue spots formed as a result of ruptured capillaries. To accurately determine the nature of the rash, take a transparent glass and run it over the skin. If the affected area does not change color when pressed, then call a doctor immediately.

How does infection occur?

The main source of the disease are people infected with meningococcus. The infection is transmitted by airborne droplets.

Infection occurs so quickly that three hours are enough for a person to feel unwell. But there are cases of a longer absence of symptoms. For example, tuberculous meningitis manifests itself within a month after intoxication.

If the first symptoms of the disease appear, immediately seek medical help. Self-medication is unacceptable!

What to do if you have contact with a patient with meningitis? If you had to contact an infected person, immediately go to the hospital to get treatment and preventive medications.

Treatment of meningitis

Specific symptoms of meningitis allow the infectious disease specialist to immediately correctly recognize the disease. If there are any doubts, a spinal puncture is performed.

Treatment is carried out only in a hospital setting. First, the patient is given antibacterial drugs intravenously. Often, antibiotics of the cephalosporin, penicillin, and macrolide groups are prescribed. The duration of such treatment is at least a week.

If the whole body is infected, it is advisable to carry out detoxification therapy, which includes injections of 5% glucose solution.

To prevent cerebral edema, diuretics are prescribed in combination with calcium-containing drugs.

The duration of treatment depends on each specific case. But it will not be possible to fully restore health after recovery earlier than in a year.

Serious complications of the disease can manifest themselves in the form of:

• deafness;
• mental retardation;
• epileptic seizures.

Meningitis Prevention

A set of preventive measures will help prevent the development of a dangerous disease.

Vaccination. The meningococcal vaccine is administered at 18 months of age, as well as to first-year students, new soldiers and tourists who are going to visit countries where an outbreak of meningitis has occurred. The vaccine lasts for three years and provides an 80% guarantee of preventing infection.

Balanced nutrition. Include fresh vegetables, fruits, and greens rich in vitamins in your daily menu. By regularly eating healthy foods, you will boost your immunity and develop a protective barrier against various infections.

Hygiene. Be sure to wash your hands with antibacterial soap for at least 20 seconds. Also keep the kitchen clean by thoroughly disinfecting the food preparation area.