Doctor's Notes on Meningitis in Adults
Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can also be associated with inflammation of the brain tissue itself, known as encephalitis. Meningitis may be caused by infections by a number of different viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It can also be due to non-infectious conditions. Diseases and conditions that can lead to widespread inflammation of body tissues without infection, such as lupus, may cause aseptic (non-bacterial) meningitis. Certain medications may also cause non-infectious or aseptic meningitis.
The characteristic symptoms and signs of meningitis include headache, fever, and a stiff neck. There is usually a painful sensitivity to light, known as photophobia. Associated symptoms and signs can include
What Is the Treatment for Meningitis in Adults?
The treatment for meningitis in adults involves a combination of the following:
- Antibiotics, given intravenously, for bacterial infections
- Antiviral or antiparasitic medications for certain types of infectious meningitis
- Corticosteroids to reduce brain swelling
- Antiseizure medications to prevent seizures
- Sedatives to control restlessness
- Medications to control headache pain and fever
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Is Meningitis Contagious?
Viral and bacterial forms of meningitis are considered contagious, while fungal, parasitic, and non-infectious forms are not. This infection and inflammation of the protective “meninges” covering the brain and spinal cord. -
Pain Medications
The effects of pain medication are different for each person. Pain also varies in tolerance as well from person to person. There are several different pain medications such as NSAIDS, acetaminophen, and narcotics. The most commonly prescribed narcotics are morphine (MS Contin, Avinza, Kadain, Oramorph), oxycodone (OxyContin, Roxicodone, M-oxy, ETH-Oxydose, Oxyfast, OxylR), fentanyl (Duragesic, Fentanyl Patch), oxymorphone (Opana), and methadone (Methadose) Narcotic pain medications can lead to physical addiction. Symptoms of physical addiction to narcotics include flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bone aches, feeling like you are "crawling out of your skin," goose bumps, chills, tremor, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms are all medical concerns and should be treated medically. -
Spinal Tap Procedure
A spinal tap is a procedure performed when a doctor needs to look at the cerebrospinal fluid (also known as spinal fluid). Spinal tap is also referred to as a lumbar puncture. Spinal tap risks include headache, herniation, bleeding, and an epidermoid cyst. -
Vomiting and Nausea
Vomiting and nausea are common complaints that accompany many conditions and diseases. A few common causes of vomiting and nausea include food poisoning, viruses, vertigo, head injuries, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, migraine, brain tumors, and infections. Treatment of vomiting and nausea depend on the cause of the symptoms.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.