Facts About Meningitis Neisseria
Meningitis neisseria, more commonly known as meningococcal meningitis, is the leading cause of bacterial meningitis, the most serious form of the disease. It causes inflammation of the membranes (meninges) and cerebrospinal fluid near the brain and spinal cord. It can be deadly if not treated promptly.
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Symptoms
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Symptoms of meningitis can mimic those of the flu and usually manifest over a period of one to two days. A combination of headache, fever and a stiff neck are the most common indicators. Additionally, you might experience nausea, vomiting, confusion, trouble concentration, seizures, sleepiness, sensitivity to light, loss of appetite, skin rash, leg pain, very cold hands and feet, and very pale skin.
Causes
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This form of meningitis is caused by the bacteria neisseria meningitis and usually enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain and spinal cord. These bacteria can also directly enter the membranes due to ear or sinus infections or a skull fracture. This particular form of bacteria typically enters the blood as a result of an upper respiratory infection. Meningococcal meningitis is highly contagious.
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Risk Factors
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Risk factors for this form of bacterial meningitis include age, with teens and young adults being the most susceptible. Other risk factors include living in a community setting such as a college dorm or military base and having a compromised immune system as a result of disease or certain medications.
Complications
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Bacterial meningitis can cause severe neurological complications the longer it is left untreated including hearing loss, blindness, speech difficulties, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, brain damage and paralysis. Kidney and adrenal gland failure are also possible. Meningococcal meningitis is very serious and can cause death within days without treatment.
Treatment
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Bacterial meningitis requires quick treatment with IV antibiotics to ensure the destruction of all infected cells and reduce complications. Additional treatments for brain swelling, shock, convulsions, or dehydration might also be necessary. Mastoids (the bones behind the outer ear that connect to the middle ear) might also be infected and need to be drained or removed.
Prevention
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Meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV4) is a vaccine that that the Centers for Disease Control recommends for children between the ages of 11 and 18. Younger children can be vaccinated if they have an increased risk of infection or have been exposed to someone who has the disease; it is approved in children as young as two.
Other preventive measures include washing your hands carefully and keeping the immune system healthy with proper diet, rest and exercise.
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