Meningitis
Overview
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord (meninges).
Symptoms
Symptoms of meningitis develop suddenly and can include: a high temperature (fever)being sicka headachea rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (but a rash will not always develop)a stiff necka dislike of bright lightsdrowsiness or unresponsivenessseizures (fits) These symptoms can appear in any order. You do not always get all the symptoms.
Causes
Viral or Bacterial infection of protective membranes around brain/spinal cord. Bacterial is life-threatening.
Treatment
People with suspected meningitis will usually have tests in hospital to confirm the diagnosis and check whether the condition is the result of a viral or bacterial infection. Bacterial meningitis usually needs to be treated in hospital for at least a week. Treatments include: antibioticsgiven directly into a veinfluids given directly into a veinoxygen through a face mask Viral meningitis tends to get better on its own within 7 to 10 days and can often be treated at home. Getting plenty of rest and taking painkillers and anti-sickness medication can help relieve the symptoms in the meantime.
Prevention
Vaccines (MenB, MenC, MenACWY, MMR, Hib).
When to see a doctor
Call 999 for an ambulance or go toyour nearest A&Eimmediately if you think you or someone you look after could have meningitis or sepsis. Trust your instincts and do not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. Someone with meningitis or sepsis can get a lot worse very quickly. CallNHS 111for advice if you're not sure if it's anything serious or you think you may have been exposed to someone with meningitis. If you've had medical advice and are still worried or any symptoms get worse, get medical help again.