How to Cure Viral Meningitis

Contributor

By Tiesha Whatley
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

Viral meningitis is an infection that affects the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a virus. In most causes, it is young children that are affected by the condition. Adults have been known to have it also.Viral meningitis can be contracted by direct exposure to the infection or as an result of another viral infection. Infected mosquitoes can spread viral meningitis. It is very contagious and can be contacted by the exchange of bodily fluids.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Notice any symptons. Early signs of viral meningitis is flu-like symptoms with a sudden spike in fever, headaches, stiff neck, weakness and vomiting. Difficulty to sleep and confusion is also symptoms of the infection.
Step 2

Seek medical attention. Have a doctor to diagnosis the condition immediately. It is imperative because viral meningitis have the same symptoms as the life-threatening bacterial meningtitis. To determine if viral meningitis is present in your body, your doctor will have to do a spinal tap, also called a lumbar puncture. To do this procedure, local anesthesia is applied to the lower back to numb it. A long, hollow needle is then used to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid from the spinal canal. The fluid will then be tested for any signs of viral meningitis.
Step 3

Receive treatment. In most cases, viral meningitis can be treated at home. Full recovery can be had anywhere from two days to two weeks. Bed rest and acetaminophen or ibuprofen usually relieve any symptoms until your body has fought off the infections. Drinking plenty of liquids is also recommended.

Tips & Warnings

Viral meningitis can be caused by the flu, chicken pox, mumps, measles, herpes simplex virus and rabies virus. If you experienced any of those conditions, be watchful for the symptoms of viral meningitis.
Wash hands frequently if you or your child has viral meningitis.
Children should be tested immediately if experiencing headeaches, lethargy and stiff neck.
Viral meningitis is highly contagious. Restrict contact with others until fully recovered.
If experiencing any of the above symptoms, seek medical advice immediately. It could be bacterial meningitis which is life-threatening.
Do NOT share food or eating utensils while having viral meningitis.