1. Understand Spinal Meningitis
Spinal meningitis is an infection of the fluid that surrounds the spine and brain. Meningitis is caused either by bacteria or a virus. Meningitis can be a life threatening condition, so early diagnosis and treatment is a must. Some types of meningitis are contagious, but it isn't spread by casual contact and is more difficult to spread than a cold or the flu. Meningitis from a virus is not as severe as meningitis from bacteria, but the cause of meningitis must be determined for the appropriate treatment to start. If left untreated, bacterial meningitis can cause learning disabilities, hearing loss, brain damage or death in a matter of hours. If any symptoms are present and you suspect meningitis, get to an emergency room immediately.
2. Identify Symptoms in Infants and Young Children
Because infants and young children can't verbalize as well as older children, it's important to observe the child and look for symptoms. Not all children experience the same symptoms, and not all symptoms may be present. Symptoms include a fever, a high-pitched cry, whimpering, an arched back, not wanting to be held or picked up, refusing to sit or stand, lethargy, listlessness or a blank staring expression. Other symptoms in children under 2 years of age include no appetite and vomiting. As meningitis progresses, seizures can occur. If your child has some of these symptoms, get to an emergency room immediately for testing.
3. Understand Symptoms in Older Children and Adults
Spinal meningitis in older children and adults can manifest with just a few symptoms or with many symptoms. Symptoms of spinal meningitis for older children and adults include severe headache, stiff neck, fever, sensitivity to light, drowsiness, fatigue, back pain radiating out from the spine, joint or muscle pain, sweating, nausea and vomiting. Decreased mental capacity, agitation, rapid breathing, and seizures may develop as the disease progresses.
4. Diagnosing and Treating of Spinal Meningitis
As soon as you arrive at the emergency room, the doctor will do a physical exam and ask you questions. Vital signs will be taken and blood work will be ordered. A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is ordered so a sample of the spinal fluid can be tested. The spinal fluid is taken to the lab and put in a growth medium to determine the type of meningitis you have. Based on what type of bacterial meningitis you have, antibiotics will be given to you by IV. Other drugs will be given to help you feel more comfortable and reduce the fever.
5. A Pound of Prevention
If you've been in close contact with anyone who is diagnosed with meningitis, let your doctor know and start on a course of antibiotics as a preventative. Vaccines are available to prevent certain types of meningitis and are recommended for all young children in conjunction with immunizations. College-age students are also urged to get a vaccine for meningitis before starting school.
