Meningitis has different types namely; viral meningitis, bacterial meningitis , non-infectual meningitis, TB meningitis and Fungal meningitis. It is a condition where the thin tissue layers called the meninges in the brain or spinal cord have been attacked. This condition can be triggered by an attack from bacteria, viruses, TB or other non-infectious factors. It leads to fever, headache, neck stiffness or vomiting. The symptoms are often mistaken for some common diseases. As you read along, you will be able to know the types of symptoms of Meningitis.
Types of Meningitis
Bacterial Meningitis
This is a critical condition that is caused by bacteria that have affected the brain. This condition starts when the bacteria gets into the bloodstream or sinuses, then proceeds to attack the meninges, which are the membranes of the brain or cord, which leads to swelling, inflammation and increased pressure. It can eventually lead to seizures, stroke or even death.
Viral Meningitis
This is a less severe meningitis that attacks the meninges through the nose or mouth and spreads into the bloodstream. The common culprits of this virus are the mumps virus, enteroviruses, arboviruses and HIV. As the virus multiplies, it travels to the nervous system. As soon as the viruses get into the meninges, they trigger an immune response, which leads to inflammation.
TB meningitis
This type of Meningitis starts from an infection in a different part of the body. It then progresses to attack the central nervous system. A person can get this through inhaling mycobacterium tuberculosis that was sneezed out or coughed out by an infected person. It multiplies in the lungs and spreads to the brain, and in the brain, they form tiny lesions known as Rich foci. Meningitis starts to occur when these lesions rupture and swell, which triggers an immune response and hence swelling.
Fungal Meningitis
This type of Meningitis is usually found in people with a weak immune system. When a person inhales fungal spores such as decaying leaves, dirt or dead or bat droppings, they get into the body through the lungs and then travel to the central nervous system. This fungus multiplies and causes inflammation in the brain or spinal cord and the cerebrospinal fluid.
Parasitic Meningitis
This type of Meningitis is not so common. It gets into the body when a person consumes or comes into contact with parasites. This type of parasite can be found in undercooked food such as snails or fish. The parasite can also get into the body when the person has exposed themselves to warm, fresh water, such as lakes or ponds. It enters through the nose and travels to the brain. The parasite causes an inflammatory response in the meninges.
Non-infectious Meningitis
It is mainly caused by autoimmune attacks, certain medications, cancer or head injury. The immune system of the body mistakenly fights against its own tissues. The symptoms of this condition can be the same as those of other types of Meningitis, but the treatment differs depending on the underlying cause.
Conclusion
Even though this condition cannot ultimately be prevented, there are some steps you can take to lower the risks of being infected. These steps are: vaccination, practising good hygiene, preventive antibiotics, and seeking immediate treatment after noticing some symptoms. If a person has been noticing any symptoms, they should go for a check-up so that it can be treated at its early stage. Dr. Amit Mittal and his team at Neuro Life Brain and Spine Centre have been helping numerous people to take care of their brain and spine.
FAQ’s
- Can I treat Meningitis at home?
Meningitis is an emergency condition; therefore, it requires seeing a doctor for treatment. After getting a doctor’s treatment, the person can treat it at home as prescribed by the doctor.
- What can be done when living with a person with Meningitis?
If living with a person with Meningitis, firstly ensure that the person has received the right treatment because it’s an emergency condition. Start practising strict hygiene, avoid sharing items with the patient and get vaccinated.
