health
Experts warn about meningitis complications amid a recent outbreak in England
Meningitis is an infection and swelling of the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. Viral infections are one of the most common causes of meningitis, but bacteria can also cause it.
TL;DR
- Meningitis involves infection and swelling of the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
- Viral infections are the most common cause, followed by bacterial infections.
- Symptoms can mimic the flu, including high fever, stiff neck, severe headache, nausea, confusion, and seizures.
- Infants may present with different symptoms like constant crying, poor feeding, and body stiffness.
- Complications can include hearing and vision loss, memory problems, brain damage, kidney failure, and death.
- Prevention involves handwashing, good hygiene, maintaining vitality through diet and exercise, and covering the mouth.
- Identifying the cause is crucial as meningitis can be fatal.