About Meningitis
This is a condition where the linings around your brain and spinal cord become infected and inflamed. Onset can be rapid and the condition can progress to septic shock, where the infection becomes overwhelming and fatal if untreated.
Symptoms of Meningitis
Symptoms of meningitis include;
- Headache
- Aversion to light (photophobia)
- Neck stiffness
Symptoms of raised pressure around the brain include;
- Drowsiness
- Convulsions
- Vomiting
Symptoms and signs of septic shock include;
- Fever
- Non blanching rash
- Cool hand and feet (extremities)
- Fast heart rate and low blood pressure
In the early stages the symptoms may resemble a flu-like viral illness.
Bacterial or viral infection
Meningococcal septicaemia (causing septic shock)
Treatment of Meningitis
Treatment of suspected bacterial meningitis is with an injected antibiotic - benzylpenicillin and urgent transfer to hospital
Prevention of Meningitis B and C is by vaccination. Vaccinations against both these strains is now included in the children's national vaccine schedule in the UK
High risk groups such as people travelling to Africa or the Middle East or students living in halls of residence should get vaccinated against Meningitis C. This is often included in a combined vaccine protecting against strains ACW and Y.
Our doctors are available now to help you with meningitis or any other medical condition which you would normally see your GP about. Book an appointment now and start feeling better right away.