Encephalitis and Meningitis (cont.)
What is the treatment of encephalitis and meningitis?
Antibiotic and/or antiviral medications are considered urgently when the diagnosis of encephalitis or meningitis is suggested. In some situations, anticonvulsants are used to prevent or treat seizures. Sometimes corticosteroids are administered to reduce brain swelling and inflammation. Sedatives may be needed for irritability or restlessness. Additional medications might be used to decrease the fever or treat headaches. The need for hospitalization usually depends on the type of meningitis the patient has and the severity of symptoms.
What is the outlook (prognosis) for patients with encephalitis or
meningitis?
The prognosis for encephalitis or meningitis varies. Some cases are mild, short, and relatively benign and patients have full recovery. Other cases are severe, and permanent impairment or death is possible. This is usually determined by the type of infection present. Meningitis can lead to permanent damage to the nervous system and can cause hydrocephalus. The acute phase of encephalitis may last for
one to two weeks, with gradual or sudden resolution of fever and neurological symptoms. Neurological symptoms may require many months before full recovery. Some patients will not fully recover.
With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, many patients recover from meningitis. Viral meningitis can be self-limiting to 10 days or less, however, in some cases, the disease progresses so rapidly that death occurs during the first 48 hours, despite early treatment.
Is meningitis contagious?
Yes. Especially some forms of bacterial meningitis are contagious.
The bacteria are spread through the exchange of respiratory and
throat secretions (for example, coughing, kissing). Fortunately, none of the
bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as conditions like
the common cold or flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or
by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. However, sometimes the bacteria that cause meningitis can spread to other people who have had close or prolonged contact with a patient with meningitis caused by
Neisseria meningitidis (also called meningococcal meningitis). People in the same household, dormitory, or daycare center, or anyone with direct contact with a patient's oral secretions (such as a boyfriend or girlfriend) would be considered at increased risk of acquiring the infection. People who qualify as close contacts of a person with meningitis caused by
N. meningitidis should receive antibiotics to prevent them from getting the disease.
Next: Are there vaccines against meningitis? »
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