How To Treat Spinal Meningitis

X-ray of the spinal column and pelvis of a woman

Meningitis is a serious, life threatening infection that is caused by bacterias, viruses and less commonly, drugs. The initiation of quick treatment is vital to the treatment of meningitis, no matter what the cause. Evaluate the signs and symptoms of meningitis carefully and seriously. The diagnosis of a medical professional at the very first signs of this dangerous condition is crucial to a positive outcome.

What is meningitis?

The central nervous system, CNS, consists of the brain and spinal cord. These areas are covered by a layer of membranes called the meninges. The meninges surrounds the entire spinal column and brain, and consists of three layers: the dura mater, the arachnoid mater and the pia mater. The dura is the outermost layer and also the thickest. The arachnoid is the middle layer and is so named because it resembles a spider web. The pia mater is the thinnest and innermost layer, closest to and adhering to the brain and spinal column. All of these layers make up a complex covering that encompasses the brain and spinal cord, and holds in cerebrospinal fluid or CSF, which is free floating around these structures.

Hand washing is the single most effective way to stop the spread of germs. Wash hands before preparing and after eating foods, after using the toilet, after changing diapers, before and after working with any patient or ill person, when soiled, after touching animals and after sneezing or coughing.

Signs of meningitis

There are classic symptoms seen with meningitis. Regardless of the cause, headache and stiff neck are symptoms seen in meningitis. Because these are indicative of other diseases or illnesses, prompt evaluation is a must. Along with headache and stiff neck, confusion, fever, altered mental state and vomiting are also noted. Oftentimes patients with meningitis have photophobia or an intolerance to light. The symptoms of meningitis can strike very quickly and seemingly out of nowhere. Quick treatment is vital for a favorable prognosis.

Vaccines are now available in two types in the United States. It is recommended by the CDC that pre-teens, 11 and 12 year olds, get vaccinated with followup booster at age 16. The highest incidence of meningitis is seen between ages 16 to 21.

Testing for meningitis

The most accurate test to diagnose meningitis and its cause is a lumbar puncture. This is a radiology test in which the doctor uses a special needle and syringe to obtain CSF. Fluid is obtained from between two vertebrae in the lumbar region of the back. This fluid is then tested to determine the presence of bacteria, viruses and any agents that could cause meningitis. The CSF is encased and free flowing between the arachnoid and pia mater layers of the spinal cord, so obtaining it is a very delicate procedure performed by a physician using sterile technique.

At the first sign and symptoms of meningitis, or any disease process, seek medical advice and evaluation. If you notice the presence of any symptoms in someone else, get help from medical professionals as soon as possible, as the patient may not do so because of altered mental state.

Treatment of meningitis

Prompt diagnosis and subsequent treatment of meningitis is key to a successful recovery. While waiting for the results of the lumbar puncture, start broad spectrum antibiotics regardless of the cause. The time between the lumbar puncture and confirmation of the cause is usually small, but that time is crucial and getting antibiotics saves valuable time if the cause is bacterial. An open IV line is the fastest method to receive medications. Symptoms of meningitis such as headaches and photophobia are treated with acetaminophen and a dark, quiet room. Anti-nausea medications are given to treat nausea and/or vomiting.

Because of the nature of meningitis, it is highly contagious and along with hand washing and proper hygiene, avoidance of known or suspected meningitis patients is critical.

Meningitis, if recognized quickly, is treatable. With simple precautions, vaccinations and awareness, the risk of contracting this life-threatening illness is drastically decreased. Follow sites or articles from the Centers for Disease Control for the latest news regarding this and other serious and communicable diseases.

With precautions the risk of contracting this illness is decreased