3. DEFINITION
It is a condition in which the
membrane surrounding the brain
and spinal cord becomes inflamed.
When the bacteria or virus enters
the bloodstream, it reaches the
brain and spinal cord directly and
attacks the meninges, the three
membranes that surround the
brain and spinal cord.
4. CAUSE
It is mostly caused by
viruses and bacteria, but
there are also other causes
such as worms and
parasites. However, the viral
strain is more common.
5. SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of this condition can
appear very quickly including:
High fever (sudden) • Headache •
Nausea or vomiting • Loss of appetite
or thirst • Bright • Sensitivity to light •
Constant feeling of fatigue • Muscle
pain • Drowsiness • Stiff neck
Not all symptoms have to appear
together at the same time.
6. THE MOST COMMON TEST
The most common tests:
Lumbar puncture is a sample of
lumbar fluid.
7. TREATMENT
Viral type: This type can
improve on its own within 7 to
10 days, can be treated at home
and does not require
hospitalization. The infected
person should rest for a long
time, and may take painkillers
and antipyretics at times.
8. TREATMENT
• Bacterial type: should be treated
as soon as possible after symptoms
appear in hospital. Stay for at least
a week. 10% of cases are fatal.
Treatments:
• Give antibiotics directly into the
vein
