There are three types of meningitis: bacterial, viral and fungal. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common type of meningitis is viral. Meningitis can be transmitted in a number of different ways, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Some cases can be prevented with simple precautions. These include keeping up to date with vaccinations, washing hands frequently and not sharing items that may come into contact with bodily fluids.
Features of Meningitis
The term meningitis refers to inflammation in the protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. All three types of meningitis (bacterial, viral and fungal) are caused by an infection that eventually enters those layers around the brain, which are called the meninges. According to the Mayo Clinic, the hallmark symptoms of all three types of meningitis are triggered by this inflammation, which causes a severe headache, fever and a stiff neck.
Types of Meningitis: Bacterial
According to the National Institutes of Health, bacterial meningitis is rare, but potentially deadly. It may begin as a cold-like infection, but as it enters the brain and spinal cord, it can progress rapidly into something far more serious. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control report this happens within three to seven days of exposure. In addition to the typical meningitis symptoms above, bacterial meningitis can also cause seizures or even a coma. Left untreated, bacterial meningitis can cause death.
Types of Meningitis: Viral
Viral meningitis, according to the National Institutes of Health, is the most common form of meningitis. The virus that causes this type of meningitis usually enters the body through the nose or the mouth, and from there eventually progresses to the brain. In addition to the usual meningitis symptoms, viral meningitis can also cause nausea, fatigue and sensitivity to light. Fortunately, the Centers for Disease Control report that most healthy people recover from viral meningitis within a week or two.
Types of Meningitis: Fungal
Fungal meningitis, like bacterial meningitis, is rare. According to the Mayo Clinic, fungal meningitis can occur in people with decreased immunity (such as those with HIV) and because of this can be potentially deadly if not treated quickly. Like the other forms of meningitis, fungal meningitis symptoms include headache and stiff neck. However, this form has a slower onset than both bacterial and viral meningitis, as it may take longer for the fungal infection to reach the brain. In addition to the other symptoms, fungal meningitis can cause confusion or changes in personality.
Warning
Because the different types of meningitis have similar symptoms, any potential signs of the disease should be investigated immediately. While fungal and viral meningitis have a slower onset than the more deadly bacterial form of meningitis, all types of the disease can mimic each other. This is because regardless of the method of infection, the end result is the same: Swelling in the meninges causes the hallmark meningitis symptoms and can lead to further complications if not addressed immediately. According to the Centers for Disease Control, even non-fatal cases of meningitis can cause long-term disabilities.
