About Bacterial Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the tissues that surround the brain and spinal column. When this inflammation is the result of a bacterial infection, it is called bacterial meningitis. Bacterial meningitis can be contagious and is a serious, potentially fatal illness. If left untreated, bacterial meningitis has a high death rate. Early treatment of bacterial meningitis is crucial for survival.
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Features
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Bacterial meningitis occurs when bacteria invade the space between the tissues covering the brain. These tissues, called the meninges, become inflamed in response to the presence of bacteria. A number of bacteria are responsible for bacterial meningitis, including some strains of bacteria that are normally found in the environment. Bacteria may enter the fluid surrounding the meninges after a trauma such as head injury, but often the source of entry can not be identified.
Identification
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The main symptoms of bacterial meningitis are a high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, sleepiness, vomiting and nausea. As the illness progresses, the individual may develop a rash, become increasingly confused, sleepy and irritated, and might eventually loose consciousness or lapse into seizures. A diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is usually confirmed with blood tests and testing of the spinal fluid.
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Effects
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Bacterial meningitis can have a serious impact on long-term health. Brain damage, paralysis, seizure disorders and hearing loss may occur as a result of a bout of severe bacterial meningitis. Inflammation of the meninges can cause injury to the blood vessels and produce blood clots and stroke. Additionally, individuals with bacterial meningitis may lapse into a coma or go into shock during the illness.
Prevention/Solution
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Because of the extreme severity of the illness, those with suspected bacterial meningitis are usually treated based on symptoms before the infection is confirmed by laboratory tests. Those with bacterial meningitis are typically isolated and treated with a combination of several antibiotics, steroids and fluids. Those who have come in contact with someone diagnosed with any contagious form of bacterial meningitis are often given preventative antibiotics.
Considerations
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Early treatment is necessary for successful recovery, as death can result in just 24 hours after symptoms appear. Certain individuals are more susceptible to developing bacterial meningitis, including children younger than 2 and people with compromised immune systems. A vaccination is available for those at risk for one type of contagious bacterial meningitis, meningococcal meningitis, which is more common in nursing homes, dorms and children.
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Resources
- Photo Credit stock_xchng - MRI head scan (stock photo by maxbrown) [id 370098]
