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Meningitis

Meningitis is inflammation of the brain membranes; symptoms, treatment, and ways of prevention.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Meningitis?

Meningitis is the inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency that can progress so quickly as to be life-threatening within hours.

Viral meningitis usually follows a milder course and often resolves spontaneously. Bacterial forms, on the other hand, present with high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and altered consciousness and require emergency antibiotic therapy.

Neisseria meningitidis and Streptococcus pneumoniae are the most common agents of bacterial meningitis. Vaccination is the most effective method of protection against bacterial meningitis. The incidence of meningitis has decreased significantly with the widespread use of vaccination programs.

Symptoms

Sudden high fever
Severe headache
Neck stiffness (inability to bend the neck forward)
Nausea and vomiting
Extreme sensitivity to light (photophobia)
Altered consciousness, confusion
Red-purple spots on the skin (in meningococcal septicemia — emergency sign)

Risk Factors

Being unvaccinated
Infant, young child, and young adult age group
Immune system suppression
Living in crowded environments such as dormitories or military service
Absence of spleen or splenic dysfunction
Travel during an epidemic

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Call emergency if there is high fever + severe headache + neck stiffness
  • If there is a rapidly spreading red-purple rash on the skin (emergency)
  • If altered consciousness or seizure has developed
  • If sensitivity is so great that the patient cannot look at light
  • If fontanelle (soft spot) bulging is noticed in infants

Treatment Methods

01
Emergency intravenous antibiotic therapy in bacterial meningitis
02
Corticosteroids (to reduce neurological complications)
03
Intensive care monitoring
04
Supportive treatment (painkillers, fluids) in viral meningitis
05
Protection through vaccination (meningococcal, pneumococcal, Hib vaccines)
06
Antibiotic prophylaxis of close contacts (in meningococcal cases)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.