Meningitis and Encephalitis
Meningitis and encephalitis are inflammatory diseases of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord and are caused by bacterial or viral infections. Viral meningitis is sometimes called aseptic meningitis to indicate it is not the result of bacterial infection and cannot be treated with antibiotics. Symptoms of encephalitis include sudden fever, headache, vomiting, heightened sensitivity to light, stiff neck and back, confusion and impaired judgment, drowsiness, weak muscles, a clumsy and unsteady gait, and irritability. Symptoms that might require emergency treatment include loss of consciousness, seizures, muscle weakness, or sudden severe dementia. Symptoms of meningitis, which may appear suddenly, often include high fever, severe and persistent headache, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting. Changes in behavior such as confusion, sleepiness, and difficulty waking up may also occur. In infants, symptoms of meningitis may include irritability or fatigue, lack of appetite, and fever. Viral meningitis usually resolves in 10 days or less, but other types of meningitis can be deadly if not treated promptly. Anyone experiencing symptoms of meningitis or encephalitis should see a doctor immediately.
Treatment
Antiviral medications may be prescribed for herpes encephalitis or other severe viral infections. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections. Anticonvulsants are used to prevent or treat seizures. Corticosteroids are used to reduce brain swelling and inflammation. Sedatives may be needed for irritability or restlessness. Over-the-counter medications may be used for fever and headache. Individuals with encephalitis or bacterial meningitis are usually hospitalized for treatment.
Prognosis
The prognosis for encephalitis varies. Some cases are mild, short and relatively benign and individuals have full recovery. although the process may be slow. Other cases are severe, and permanent impairment or death is possible. The acute phase of encephalitis may last for 1 to 2 weeks, with gradual or sudden resolution of fever and neurological symptoms. Neurological symptoms may require many months before full recovery. With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, most individuals recover from meningitis. However, in some cases, the disease progresses so rapidly that death occurs during the first 48 hours, despite early treatment.
Research
The NINDS supports and conducts research on infections and diseases of the brain and nervous system including encephalitis and meningitis. Much of this research is aimed at learning more about the cause(s), prevention, and treatment of these disorders.
Organizations
Meningitis Foundation of America, Inc.
Helps support patients with meningitis and their families. Provides information to educate the public and medical professionals about meningitis about early diagnosis and treatment. Also works for the development of vaccines and other means of treating and/or preventing meningitis.
P.O. Box 1818
El Mirage, AZ 85335
supportmfa@musa.org
http://www.musa.org
Tel: El Mirage
National Meningitis Association
Non-profit public charity that works to inform families, medical professionals, and others about the dangers of meningococcal meningitis and the benefits of vaccination.
P.O. Box 60143
Ft. Myers, FL 33906
support@nmaus.org
http://www.nmaus.org
Tel: Ft. Myers
Fax: 877-703-6096
NIAID Office of Communications and Government Relations
National Institutes of Health, DHHS
5601 Fishers Lane, MSC 9806
Bethesda, MD 20892
http://www.niaid.nih.gov
Tel: Bethesda
Content Provided By
NINDS Disorders is an index of neurological conditions provided by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. This valuable tool offers detailed descriptions, facts on treatment and prognosis, and patient organization contact information for over 500 identified neurological disorders.
