How to Manage Spinal Meningitis

The meninges are the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. When these meninges become inflamed, it is called spinal meningitis and it is a serious disorder that needs to be treated immediately. Here we look at the causes, signs and symptoms and the treatment methods done when you have spinal meningitis.

There are two main causes of meningitis – bacteria and virus hence these are referred to as bacterial and viral meningitis respectively. In most cases, the body is able to fight off the infection with the immune system. However, there are instances when the infection can reach the blood stream then the cerebrospinal fluid and the meninges which surround the spinal cord and the brain. Other causes of this disease include fungal infections, some types of cancers, traumatic injuries to the spine or head, inflammatory diseases and reactions to some medical treatments.

The signs and symptoms of spinal meningitis differ from adults and infants although there are some which are similar. For adults and those who are beyond two years old, you will notice high fever, severe headache, stiff neck and nausea and vomiting. These are often accompanied by difficulty in concentrating and confusion, being sensitive to light, difficulty in waking up or sleepiness, lack of appetite, skin rashes and seizures. For newborns, the signs and symptoms of spinal meningitis include high fever, irritability or excessive sleepiness, being inactive or sluggish, poor feeding, constant crying, a bulge on top of the baby’s head called fontanel, stiffness of the body or neck and seizures.

When you notice the signs and symptoms that were mentioned above, it is important for you to seek treatment immediately. The hallmark signs that you should look out for are fever, severe headache, confusion, vomiting and stiff neck. For viral meningitis, this can improve in a few days even without treatment. However, bacterial meningitis is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment with antibiotics since it can be fatal.

The treatment of this disorder depends on the type of spinal meningitis that you have. For bacterial meningitis, intravenous antibiotics are given as soon as possible to ensure fast recovery and to prevent any complications. The medications will of course depend on the type of bacteria which are determined through different tests. On the other hand, for viral meningitis, this can improve even when not treated. However, it is recommended that you have enough bed rest, drink plenty of fluids and the medications that will be given to you will be for relief of fever and body aches should you have any. For the other types of spinal meningitis, antiviral and antibiotics will be given while the cause is yet to be determined. In some cases, these will not require treatment for they will resolve on their own.

Spinal meningitis can lead to several complications if it is not treated properly. Some common complications include learning disabilities, behavioral problems, brain damage, paralysis and other physiological and neurological damages. When you are aware of the causes, the signs and symptoms and the management of spinal meningitis, then you will be able to avoid such complications.