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Information on Bacterial meningitis with Treatment and Prevention

Information on Bacterial meningitis with Treatment and Prevention
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It is usually caused by bacteria or viruses. Two species of bacteria account for most cases of acute bacterial meningitis neisseria meningitidis and streptococcus pneumoniae. These organisms infect the brain without an identifiable reason. In other cases, infection develops because the immune system is impaired as it is in people who have an HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. Bacteria ca
n travel from the sinuses through the opening and infect the meninges.

People most at risk of developing meningitis due to Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae are those who abuse alcohol. Bacterial meningitis is more common in very young children, under the age of five. In adults, it affects more men than women. People at higher risk are those with chronic illnesses, such as ear and nose infections, or illnesses that impair the immune system. Bacterial meningitis is found worldwide. The bacteria often live harmlessly in a person's mouth and throat. The bacteria are spread by direct close contact with the discharges from the nose or throat of an infected person.

Early symptoms of acute bacterial meningitis are a fever, headache, stiff neck, sore throat, and vomiting. Headache is the most common symptom of meningitis (87 percent). These symptoms are sometimes preceded by a cough and other symptoms suggesting a respiratory illness. A skin rash may develop because of inflammation and bleeding in small blood vessels throughout the body, including those under the skin. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and has a high mortality rate if untreated. Treatment is usually started immediately, without waiting for the results of diagnostic procedures.

Adjuvant treatment with corticosteroids reduces rates of mortality, severe hearing loss and neurological sequelae in adults. Corticosteroids are not usually given to people who have a serious infection (because these drugs suppress the immune system), but bacterial meningitis is an exception. A corticosteroid is best started before or with the first dose of antibiotics and continued for only one or two days. Routine immunization can go a long way toward preventing meningitis.Good hygiene is an important way to prevent any infection. Avoiding close contact with someone who is obviously ill and not sharing food, drinks and eating utensils.

Juliet Cohen, May-25-2008