Meningitis is a decidedly dangerous illness and it is always good to know most about it much in advance to avoid it in the first place. Here are some FAQs on meningitis that will increase your knowledge about the disease.
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is the name of an illness caused due to either a virus or bacteria. It causes inflammation in the meninges, the covering lining over the brain and spinal cord. When caused by meningococcus bacteria (Neisseria meningitides), the illness can be life threatening. Outbreaks of the illness can occur throughout the year. However, winter and early spring is the time when most persons catch meningitis.
In what sense is meningitis life threatening?
Bacterial meningitis progresses very fast and the incubation period of the germs in a victim varies between 2 and 10 days. Although it is very much treatable, if not treated with appropriate medications in time it can cause permanent damage to the brain or deafness. In some cases it can cause gangrene and death if treatment is delayed due to any reason.
Is meningitis infectious and can it recur in an individual?
Yes, it has a contagious bacterial form that spreads via droplet infection by breathing in infected air polluted with the meningitis germs. Alternatively it can spread via sputum or saliva too while sneezing, laughing, or coughing. Further, it can very much recur in an individual.
How can the near and dear ones of a meningitis patient recognize meningitis so that they can take the patient as early as possible to a qualified doctor?
You can recognize meningitis from its characteristic symptoms. In adults and older children suffering from meningitis the common symptoms to be found include the following.
Fever, headache (severe), nausea and vomiting, and preference to stay away from light and from noise are some of the symptoms. Stiffness in the neck is also a symptom. In some cases, dark patches (bruise-like rashes) on the skin can be found and some patients can seem confused or lose consciousness.
In infants till the age of 2 years, the symptoms of meningitis may be characterized by high pitched crying and irritability. Fever is also a symptom in them as also are general lethargy, drowsiness, and especially refusal to partake food is to be found. In some infants the soft spot on the head (fontanel) bulges.
Some infants may be prone towards fits and convulsions in meningitis. Although flu may have symptoms somewhat akin to meningitis, it is always safe to err on the side of gravity and take a patient immediately to a qualified doctor.
What are the precautions for cohabiting relatives to take to avoid contracting meningitis from a patient?
The precautions to take to avoid contracting meningitis from a patient include the following. Ciprofloxacin medication, an antibiotic needs to be taken by all close contacts of a meningitis patient. Close contacts need to also avoid kissing or sharing utensils, cigarettes, and cutlery with an infected patient. Close contacts can include classmates, closeted employees or students, family members, and cohabiting partners or spouses.
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