According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, pneumococcal meningitis is an inflammation or infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by the bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae, or pneumococcus. MedlinePlus.com states that it is the second most common cause of meningitis in children older than the age of six. It also reports that although early treatment can improve the outcome of the disease, about 50% of those infected may develop long-term complications which include hydrocephalus, or fluid buildup in the brain, mental retardation, and paralysis of muscles.
Hydrocephalus
According to MedlinePlus.com, hydrocephalus can be a complication of pneumococcal meningitis. This is the build-up of fluid in the brain. Pneumococcal meningitis can result in blockage of the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid, which is the liquid around the brain and spinal cord. This cerebrospinal fluid supplies the brain with nutrients, removes waste from the brain, and protects the brain from damage. According to Medlineplus.com, patients with hydrocephalus can experience uncontrolled eye movements, seizures, sleepiness, vomiting, loss of coordination and trouble walking.
Mental Retardation
According to Medlineplus.com, mental retardation is a complication of pneumococcal meningitis. Mental retardation is characterized by infant-like behavior, decreased learning skills, and inability to meet intellectual development standards.
Paralysis of the Muscles and Deafness
MedlinePlus.com reports that paralysis of the muscles is seen as a complication of pneumococcal meningitis. Since pneumococcal meningitis affects the brain and spinal cord, any delay in treatment can cause paralysis, and the loss of muscle function could be severe. Medlineplus.com states that paralysis due to pneumococcal meningitis can be temporary or permanent, and can include a small or large area. Medlineplus.com also reports that respiratory failure can occur in a case where there is paralysis of the breathing muscles and can even cause death.
Hearing Problems
Medlineplus.com reports that deafness can be a complication of pneumococcal meningitis. According to Deafness Research UK, pneumococcal meningitis is responsible for 6% of hearing problems in children. Some long term hearing complications also include tinnitus, or ringing sounds in the head or ears.
