The extensive inflammation of the serous membranes of the brain is a dangerous and very contagious disease, especially in the autumn-winter period, when the air is cold and wet. Infectious meningitis is provoked by various pathogens, most often viruses and bacteria. In most cases, the disease is caused by a combination of pathogenic microorganisms, so it is extremely rare to determine the root cause of the inflammatory process.
How is infectious meningitis transmitted?
Bacteria, protozoa and viruses that provoke the pathology under consideration live on the mucous membranes of a sick person. Accordingly, they spread when coughing and sneezing, as well as when close contacts, for example, during a kiss, use of common cutlery and utensils.
Despite the fact that meningitis is transmitted by household and airborne droplets, not all people are infected with it. Normal functioning immunity provides protection from penetration of pathogens into the body.
Symptoms and consequences of infectious meningitis
The described disease is characterized by acute symptoms:
- high body temperature ;
- severe malaise;
- vomiting and nausea;
- lack of appetite until completely refusing to eat;
- diarrhea;
- pain in the muscles, abdomen, head, orbit;
- slight disturbances of consciousness;
- discomfort in the throat;
- coryza;
- drowsiness and weakness;
- increased sensitivity of the skin.
With timely and correct therapy, adults quickly recover without complications. In rare cases, severe consequences of meningitis develop in the form of impaired functioning of the sense organs (sight, hearing), brain work, paralysis, necrosis and epileptic seizures. With the late provision of medical care, a lethal outcome is possible.
Treatment and prevention of infectious meningitis
The basis for the therapy of inflammation of serous meninges is the support of immunity and the suppression of bacterial reproduction, and additional mandatory symptomatic treatment is carried out. The patient is individually assigned several groups of drugs:
- immunomodulating;
- antiviral;
- antibacterial;
- steroidal anti-inflammatory (hormones);
- painkillers;
- antispasmodics;
- anticonvulsant ;
- vitamins.
As prevention of meningitis, doctors recommend standard measures to strengthen immunity, as well as vaccination against viruses that trigger the development of the disease.