(2) However, few people infected with enteroviruses actually develop meningitis.
(2)
Causes ofBacterial Meningitis
Various types of bacteria can cause bacterial meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis is very serious and can be fatal.
Although most people recover, permanent complications may include brain damage, hearing loss, and learning disabilities.
Premature babies with very low birth weights also have a greater risk of getting aCandidabloodstream infection.
But most cases in the United States have been linked to swimming in Southern states like Florida and Texas.
Doctors diagnose meningitis by taking a medical history, conducting a physical exam, and administering diagnostic tests.
In other cases, emergency treatment is necessary to prevent serious complications, including death.
(2)
Viral meningitis is typically mild and frequently goes away on its own.
Early diagnosis andtreatment of bacterial meningitisare critical to prevent permanent neurological damage.
(10)
In most cases, people with very mild meningitis can make a full recovery.
Treatment for Viral Meningitis
Antibiotics cant cure viral meningitis.
For mild cases, treatment usually includes bed rest and lots of fluids.
(10) The illness is usually due to a viral infection.
In most cases, people with encephalitis can make a full recovery.
She is board-certified in both internal medicine and infectious diseases.
She also teaches medical trainees and lectures medical students at the Emory University School of Medicine.
Joseph Bennington-Castro is a science writer based in Hawaii.
Meningitis
Meningitis Treatment and Prevention
What Is Bacterial Meningitis?
