What happens when you have meningitis?

Meningitis is a potentially life-threatening infection of the meninges, the tough layer of tissue that surrounds the brain and the spinal cord. If not treated, meningitis can lead to brain swelling and cause permanent disability, coma, and even death.

What infectious disease identifies meningitis as a potential complication?

Meningococcal disease is any illness caused by a type of bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis. These illnesses are serious and include meningitis and bloodstream infections (septicemia).

Why is bacterial meningitis considered more life threatening than viral meningitis?

Bacterial meningitis can occur alongside sepsis, which is the more life threatening form of the disease and often involves the bacteria invading the blood as well. Sepsis can occur with or without bacterial meningitis.

What is the main cause of meningitis?

Viral infections are the most common cause of meningitis, followed by bacterial infections and, rarely, fungal and parasitic infections. Because bacterial infections can be life-threatening, identifying the cause is essential.

What does meningitis do to the brain?

Meningitis is an infection of the membranes (meninges) that protect the spinal cord and brain. When the membranes become infected, they swell and press on the spinal cord or brain. This can cause life-threatening problems. Meningitis symptoms strike suddenly and worsen quickly.

How does bacterial meningitis spread?

People spread meningococcal bacteria to other people by sharing respiratory and throat secretions (saliva or spit). Generally, it takes close (for example, coughing or kissing) or lengthy contact to spread these bacteria. Fortunately, they are not as contagious as germs that cause the common cold or the flu.

How does bacterial meningitis affect the body?

What is the difference between viral meningitis and bacterial meningitis?

While there are similarities between the two – such as common initial symptoms and the population demographics most at risk of infection – bacterial meningitis is often more severe, and can be life-threatening if not treated. In contrast, patients with viral meningitis often recover on their own within 7 to 10 days.

Does meningitis affect your memory?

After recovering from meningitis, some people experience problems with memory. This can be a result of damage to the brain during the illness. Children who have recovered from meningitis may have difficulty concentrating due to lingering brain damage.

How does meningitis affect the brain?

What is the body’s response to bacterial meningitis?

Trouble with memory and concentration may last well after the illness has passed. Children may be left with lingering learning difficulties. Swelling in the brain can also interfere with the senses. It can cause ringing in the ears (tinnitus), partial hearing loss, or deafness.

What body systems does meningitis affect?

The central nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. Meningitis is an infection that causes the protective membranes of the nervous system to swell. Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord can affect every part of your body.