Bacterial Meningitis

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• Bacterial meningitis is an infection and inflammation (swelling) of the meninges caused by bacteria (germs). Meninges are linings around the brain and spinal cord. Normally, the meninges serve as a wall between the blood and the brain. The meninges prevent germs and other substances from entering the brain and spinal cord.
  
  
• With meningitis, bacteria enter and damage the meninges. The fluid in the brain gets infected which causes inflammation. Because of the inflammation, blood flow is decreased to the brain and there is increased pressure in your head. Signs and symptoms of bacterial meningitis are fever, headache, stiff neck, and sleepiness. You may also have a rash, vision changes, nausea (upset stomach), or vomiting (throwing up). Bacterial meningitis can be diagnosed by lumbar puncture, blood tests, and a computerized tomography (CT) scan. Treatment includes antibiotic and anticonvulsant medicines. Bacterial meningitis may be prevented by getting a vaccination (shot).

AFTER YOU LEAVE:

Medicines:

• Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Learn why you take each medicine. Ask your caregiver for information about your medicine. Do not use any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.
  
  
• Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver. If you are taking medicine that makes you drowsy, do not drive or use heavy equipment.

Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.

For support and more information: Accepting that you have bacterial meningitis may be hard. You and those close to you may feel scared, sad, or angry. These are normal feelings. Talk to your caregivers, family, or friends about your feelings. Contact the following for more information:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  National Center for Infectious Diseases
  Phone: 1-888-4437232
  Web Address: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/
  

• National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases
  NIAID Office of Communications & Public Liaison
  6610 Rockledge Drive, MSC 6612
  Bethesda, Maryland 20892-6612
  Phone: 1-301-496-5717
  Web Address: www3.niaid.nih.gov
  

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have a fever (increased body temperature).
  
  
• You have any questions or concerns about your bacterial meningitis, medicine, or care.
  
  
• You think someone in your family may have bacterial meningitis.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You have a headache or stiff neck.
  
  
• You are confused or hard to wake up.
  
  
• You have a seizure (convulsion).
  
  
• Your symptoms are getting worse or returning.

Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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