stiff neck and pain in the cervical area

Meningitis symptoms. Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spine, and is often caused by a bacteria or virus.

Infections occur more often among children, adolescents or young adults, but the risk also exists for the elderly or those with a weakened immune system.

Types of meningitis

There are two types of meningitis:

• Viral meningitis – is the most common form and does not present serious symptoms. In severe cases, this can lead to fever and chills. Viral meningitis annually affects 80-92% of young children and infants. It can be transmitted through food, water and contaminated objects.
• Bacterial meningitis – is caused by Neisseria meningitis (meningococcus) or Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), bacteria located at the throat and nasal level, without causing ailments. However, they can cause meningitis if they reach the bloodstream, and through it, the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or the membranes of the brain (meninges). Group B streptococcus etci Listeria monocytogenes there are two other bacteria that can cause meningitis. In most cases, meningitis caused by Group B Streptococcus was found among newborns, called neonatal meningitis, and that caused by Listeria among older adults. Bacterial meningitis is rare, but very dangerous and can be transmitted through nasal secretions and saliva. If it is not treated, it can lead to brain disorders or even death.

Also, meningitis can also be caused by certain drugsbut such cases are very rare.
It must be taken into account that meningitis is a contagious disease and the germs that caused it can be easily spread from one person to another through coughing, sneezing or even kissing.

Meningitis symptoms

The most common symptoms are:

• Stiff neck and pain in the cervical area
• Fever
• Headaches
• Vomiting states
• Sleepiness
• Muscle pain
• Chills
• Photophobia

In the case of children, there may be skin irritations, refusal to eat and crying when held.

When should we see a doctor?

It is very important to go to a specialist consultation as soon as you notice the symptoms described above because only a doctor can determine exactly if it is meningitis and, if so, what type it is and what treatment is required.

Analyzes necessary to detect meningitis

To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will ask the patient suspected of meningitis some questions related to the symptoms felt and will perform one or more tests, including:

1. Lumbar puncture – also called spinal puncture and consists of taking a sample of cerebrospinal fluid and will be tested for the presence of microorganisms that can cause meningitis.
2. Blood test
3. Computed Tomography after CT
4. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Tests (IRM)

Treatment of meningitis

Bacterial meningitis it can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by the doctor, but sometimes the administration of steroid-based drugs may also be necessary. The patient requires hospitalization and permanent supervision to observe the evolution of the disease and to identify the effects of the medication.

Viral meningitis, instead, it can be treated at home with anti-inflammatory drugs and high fluid consumption, which speed up healing. Properly treated, this mild form of meningitis can be cured in less than two weeks.