WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is bacterial meningitis? Bacterial meningitis is inflammation of the lining that surrounds and protects your brain and spinal cord. The inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection and can be life-threatening. What increases my risk for bacterial meningitis? The bacteria are found in the mouth, throat, or nose. They are spread from an infected person to another by coughing, kissing, or sharing food or drinks. It can also spread from an ear, nose, throat, sinus, or brain infection. A head injury or head surgery may also spread the infection. Your risk for bacterial meningitis is increased if you are older than 60 years or between 15 and 24 years. Diabetes, cancer, or an organ transplant also increases your risk. What are the signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis? Any of the following may develop within hours or days: - A severe headache, stiff neck, and a fever
- Neck pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Red or purple rash
- Eye pain when you look into bright lights
- Sleepiness or confusion
How is bacterial meningitis diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will examine you and ask about your signs and symptoms. Tell him if you were recently around anyone who has bacterial meningitis. You may also need any of the following: - Blood tests are used to check for the bacteria that cause meningitis.
- CT or MRI pictures may show signs of infection. You may be given contrast liquid to help the pictures show up better. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.
- A lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, is a procedure used to take a sample of fluid that surrounds your spinal cord. Your healthcare provider will insert a needle into your spine. The fluid will be taken through the needle. It will be sent to the lab and tested for bacteria that cause meningitis.
- A throat culture is a test that may help find the type of germ causing your illness. A throat culture is done by rubbing a cotton swab against the back of the throat.
How is bacterial meningitis treated? - Antibiotics help treat a bacterial infection.
- Steroids decrease redness, pain, and swelling.
- Seizure medicine helps control seizures.
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly. Do not use more than 4 grams (4,000 milligrams) total of acetaminophen in one day.
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
How can I help prevent the spread of bacterial meningitis? - Wash your hands often. Use soap and water. Wash your hands after you use the bathroom, change a child's diapers, or sneeze. Wash your hands before you prepare or eat food.
- Do not share food or drinks. Discard tissues after you use them to wipe or blow your nose.
- Get vaccines as directed. Vaccines help protect you and others around you from diseases caused by infection.
Call 911 or have someone call 911 for any of the following: - You are hard to wake.
- You have a seizure.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have a headache, fever, and stiff neck.
- You are confused.
- You start to have trouble seeing or hearing.
- You have a new red or purple skin rash.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
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