An infection of the membranes (meninges) that cover the brain and spinal cord is known as bacterial meningitis. In order to prevent severe complications, such as brain damage, hearing loss, or death, it is essential to know about its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Infections with bacterial meningitis are caused by a variety of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Listeria monocytogenes. Inflammation and infection can occur in the meninges once these bacteria enter the bloodstream from the nose, throat, sinuses, or ears, or from a wound or surgery.
Some people are more at risk of getting bacterial meningitis than others. These include:
Infants and young children
Elderly people
People with weakened immune systems
People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, sickle cell disease, or HIV
People who live in crowded settings, such as dormitories, military barracks, or prisons
People who travel to areas where bacterial meningitis is common, such as sub-Saharan Africa
The symptoms of bacterial meningitis can vary depending on the age of the person and the type of bacteria involved. However, some common symptoms include:
Fever
Headache
Stiff neck
Nausea and vomiting
Confusion and altered mental status
Sensitivity to light and sound
Seizures
Skin rash
If you suspect that you or someone else has bacterial meningitis, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
To diagnose bacterial meningitis, the doctor will perform a physical examination and ask about the medical history and symptoms of the person. The doctor will also order some tests, such as:
Blood tests, to check for signs of infection and inflammation
Urine tests, to check for bacteria in the urine
Chest X-ray, to check for pneumonia or other lung infections
CT scan or MRI, to check for brain swelling or other complications
Lumbar puncture (spinal tap), to collect and analyze the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. This is the most definitive test for bacterial meningitis, as it can identify the type and number of bacteria in the CSF.
It is essential to treat bacterial meningitis with antibiotics immediately since it is a medical emergency. Antibiotics are usually administered intravenously (through a vein) in a hospital setting, depending on the type of bacteria involved and the severity of the infection.
In addition to antibiotics, the person may also receive other treatments, such as:
Fluids and electrolytes, to prevent dehydration and maintain blood pressure
Oxygen, to improve breathing and oxygen delivery to the brain
Steroids, to reduce inflammation and swelling in the brain
Anticonvulsants, to prevent or control seizures
Painkillers, to relieve headache and other discomforts
Sedatives, to calm the person and reduce agitation
The person may also need intensive care and monitoring, especially if they develop complications, such as:
Brain abscess, a collection of pus in the brain
Hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain
Subdural empyema, a collection of pus between the brain and the skull
Cerebral edema, a swelling of the brain
Hearing loss, deafness, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Vision loss, blindness, or eye inflammation
Cranial nerve palsy, a paralysis of the nerves that control the face, eye, or mouth movements
Septic shock, a life-threatening drop in blood pressure and organ failure
A person's prognosis of bacterial meningitis depends on a number of factors, including the age of the patient, the type of bacteria involved, when the illness was diagnosed, and whether complications occurred. These factors can affect the mortality rate of bacterial meningitis, which can be between 5% and 40%. In addition to cognitive impairments, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and physical disabilities, survivors of bacterial meningitis may also have long-term effects.
The best way to prevent bacterial meningitis is to get vaccinated against the most common types of bacteria that cause it. These include:
Pneumococcal vaccine, which protects against Streptococcus pneumoniae
Meningococcal vaccine, which protects against Neisseria meningitidis
Hib vaccine, which protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b
In addition to infants, children, adolescents, adults with certain medical conditions, and travelers to high-risk areas, these vaccines are safe and effective, and can prevent up to 90% of bacterial meningitis cases.
Other ways to prevent bacterial meningitis include:
Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding sharing personal items, such as utensils, cups, or toothbrushes
Avoiding contact with people who have bacterial meningitis or symptoms of respiratory infection, such as fever, cough, or sore throat
Seeking medical attention promptly if you have symptoms of bacterial meningitis or if you have been exposed to someone who has it
Taking preventive antibiotics if you have been in close contact with someone who has bacterial meningitis, as advised by your doctor
Infections of the brain and spinal cord caused by bacteria are serious and potentially deadly, but they can be prevented, diagnosed, and treated appropriately. In order to prevent bacterial meningitis, it is important to understand its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
