Viral meningitis is a condition in which the lining around the brain and spinal cord becomes inflamed due to infection caused by a virus. This condition is highly contagious and occurs more frequently in children. Certain patients with viral meningitis may be asymptomatic, but typical symptoms of this condition include fever, headache and stiff neck. Although the majority of patients fully recover from this condition, viral meningitis may cause a number of after effects.
Neurological
The Meningitis Research Foundation states that after effects in some viral meningitis patients include memory loss or difficulty in retaining information. Concentration and learning difficulties may also develop, which may interfere with the normal development of a child with this condition. Some patients may also experience coordination problems, leading them to appear clumsy or inattentive. Frequent headaches may also occur, which can be difficult for some patients to manage. Over time, these neurological after effects may fade, but may also be permanent in certain patients.
Speech, Auditory or Visual
The Meningitis Foundation of American notes that speech, auditory or visual after effects may develop in certain patients recovering from viral meningitis. Some patients may have difficulty speaking or developing new language skills, which can interfere with the developmental progression of some children. Tinnitus---a condition in which patients experience a ringing or swishing sensation within the ears---may also develop. In addition, extensive hearing problems or deafness may occur in some patients. Visual problems, including changes in or loss of sight, may be experienced by viral meningitis patients. Although these auditory or visual after effects may improve over time, they may be permanent in some instances.
Musculoskeletal
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a number of musculoskeletal effects may develop in viral meningitis patients. These patients may experience muscle weakness, spasms or paralysis in certain regions of the body. If these changes are permanent, a patient is sometimes diagnosed as having cerebral palsy. Patients may also experience extensive pain, stiffness or inflammation in the joints---a condition called arthritis. In severe cases of meningitis, epilepsy or seizures may develop. These musculoskeletal after effects may resolve over time, or they may result in permanent disability.
