Meningitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Urgency

Meningitis is a serious bacterial infection of the meninges (brain and spinal cord membranes). Common causative bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae type b.

Symptoms

• Fever, severe headache, stiff neck
• Nausea, vomiting, confusion
• Seizures, light sensitivity
• Muscle aches, rash (especially meningococcal)

Treatment

• IV antibiotics (immediate, empiric then targeted)
• IV fluids, oxygen
• Corticosteroids (adjunct for certain bacterial types)
• Pain relief, rest
• Surgery rarely needed for complications (e.g., abscess drainage)

Meningitis is a medical emergency. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent death or permanent neurological damage. Seek immediate care if symptoms appear.