Aseptic meningitis is quite similar to bacterial meningitis. It is also known as sterile meningitis. However, unlike bacterial or viral meningitis, the bacteria does not grow in the cultures of the fluid around the brain and spinal cord in aseptic meningitis.
There are several factors that can cause aseptic meningitis. One of the most prominent causes of aseptic meningitis is infections near the brain or spinal cord. Some cancers may also lead to the problem. There are certain medications that are also known to contribute to aseptic meningitis. These medications typically include antibiotics and ITC anti inflammatory medications.
Various microorganisms may also cause aseptic meningitis in various individuals. Fungi, mycobacteria and viruses are some of the common microorganisms that cause the problem. Aseptic meningitis may also be a result of various health problems like tick borne diseases such as lyme disease and tuberculosis.
While aseptic meningitis can attack anyone and everyone there are some individuals who fall in the high risk category. People who have a suppressed immune system have greater chances of developing the problem. Exposure to children in a day care setting or someone with a recent viral infection also increases the risk of developing the disease.
Spotting aseptic meningitis can be a little difficult as it is accompanied by symptoms that are similar to common flu. Some of the common symptoms of aseptic meningitis include fever, general discomfort, uneasiness, muscle pain, nausea, headache and the like. Some people may also experience confusion, sore throat, stiff neck, and abdominal pain.
Since there are no specific symptoms of aseptic meningitis, a proper diagnosis needs to be conducted. A lumbar puncture needs to be performed for this purpose. This test involves taking a sample of the spinal fluid, which is studied to identify the presence of meningitis. A white blood cell count may also be conducted along with other special tests of the spinal fluid.
Treating aseptic meningitis is a must. This is because if left untreated, an infection of the brain may develop. However, the chances of this are rare. You should start looking for an appropriate treatment as soon as you notice the symptoms of aseptic meningitis. Call your health care provider to deal with the problem in the best manner.
There is no specific treatment for aseptic meningitis. The treatment for the problem may differ from one individual to the other depending upon the cause and the severity of the problem. For instance, if Herpesvirus is the cause of aseptic meningitis then it needs to be treated with antiviral medications. On the other hand, if there are non-infectious causes of the problem then pain medications may be used.
Now that you know it all about aseptic meningitis, you will be able to deal with the problem better.
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