Meningitis is an infection of the meninges, with viral meningitis caused by a virus and bacterial meningitis caused by bacteria. Bacterial meningitis is more severe and requires immediate hospitalization and treatment with antibiotics, while viral meningitis usually resolves without treatment. Symptoms are similar for both types and can include headaches, high fevers, and stiff necks. Diagnosis is done through a physical exam and specific diagnostic tests. Both types are contagious, and prevention is best achieved through safe hygiene practices and vaccines for some strains of bacterial meningitis.
Viral and bacterial meningitis have different causes: a virus causes one and bacteria cause the other, as their names suggest. The most important difference between viral and bacterial meningitis, however, is the severity of the disease. Those with viral meningitis usually get better, even without treatment. Bacterial meningitis is considered an emergency condition, usually requiring immediate hospitalization and treatment with antibiotics. With treatment, there is still the possibility of brain damage or even death.
Meningitis is an infection of the meninges, which are membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Most cases are caused by bacteria or viruses, although in rare cases drugs or environmental chemicals may be the cause. The two main types of meningitis are viral meningitis and bacterial meningitis.
Viral meningitis is more common and is caused by a virus. This type of meningitis does not usually lead to serious illness. In more extreme cases, a patient may experience prolonged fever and seizures. Many people never realize they have viral meningitis because the symptoms are often very similar to those of the flu.
Acute bacterial meningitis is a much more serious condition and requires medical attention. The bacteria enter the bloodstream, sometimes from an ear or sinus infection or a skull fracture, and migrate to the brain and spinal cord. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Symptoms are similar for viral and bacterial meningitis. Adults and children commonly exhibit headaches, high fevers, and stiff necks. They may also suffer from nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, disorientation and drowsiness.
Newborns do not have the same symptoms and are often difficult to diagnose. They may show irritability or lethargy and have a reduced appetite. In later stages, infected individuals of all ages could progress to seizures.
Doctors use several techniques to diagnose viral and bacterial meningitis. Along with a physical exam that often focuses on looking for signs of infection in the spinal area and around the head, ears, and throat, there are specific diagnostic tests that may be done. A common procedure is the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total protein test, which measures the amount of protein in the cerebrospinal fluid. This is done through the use of a lumbar puncture, commonly referred to as a lumbar puncture. An abnormal amount of protein in the collected sample is indicative of the possibility of a meningitis infection.
Viral and bacterial meningitis are both contagious. The infection can be transmitted through coughing, sneezing and other close contact. Prevention is best achieved through safe hygiene practices. Vaccines are also available for some strains of bacterial meningitis.
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