In this article we will discuss about various Causes of Meningitis and its Treatment. So, let’s get started.
Causes
Bacterial Meningitis due to Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus Influenzae etc
Viral Meningitis due to Herpes,HIV etc
Fungal Meningitis due to Cryptococcus
Parasitic Meningitis due to N.fowerli,Angiostrongylus cantonensis
Non-infectious Causes includes
Sjögren Syndrome
Lupus and Other Autoimmune Disorders
Rheumatoid arthritis
Behçet Syndrome etc
Risk factors include
Age – Children below 5 years are more likely to suffer Viral Meningitis while Bacterial Meningitis is more common in those below 20 yrs of age.
Compromised Immune System like Diabetics, HIV patients, Patients on Steroids etc
Pregnancy
Skipping Vaccination
Treatment
Antibiotics are used in Bacterial Meningitis depending upon the causative agent.
Antibiotics doesn’t help in Viral Meningitis.
Viral Meningitis usually gets cured on its own
Fungal Meningitis requires antifungal medications
Plenty of fluid, maintaining proper hydration and ample of rest is the mainstay of the treatment.
Pain Relievers, Steroids etc helps to reduce pain and Fever.
Vaccinations include
For pneumococcal meningitis
PCV13
PPSV23
For meningococcal meningitis
MenB for Neisseria meningitidis type B
MenACWY for Neisseria meningitidis type A,C W-135 and Y
CDC recommends MenACWY Vaccine for all children aged below 11 and a booster dose at 16 and MenB Vaccine for teenagers.