Bacterial meningitis (say "meh-nun-JY-tus") is a serious infection of the tissues that surround the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms usually develop suddenly. They start with a fever and a stiff neck but quickly get worse. More serious symptoms can develop. The infection may involve many different parts of the body and last for 2 to 3 weeks.
You will be in the hospital for testing and treatment.
Doctors use a lumbar puncture to test for this disease. This test is also called a spinal tap. A sample of fluid is removed from around the spine. The fluid is then tested to see if it contains bacteria that cause the illness. It may take a few days to get the results, and you may get treatment even before the results are known.
The doctor may also order other tests, such as blood tests, a CT scan, or an MRI.
Bacterial meningitis can be serious. It can injure your brain and can be life-threatening. You may need special care, such as being in the intensive care unit (ICU). Your care team will watch you closely and make any needed changes in treatment right away.
Treatment takes place in the hospital. Treatment may include:
How long it takes you to get better depends on how bad the illness is. It can take from just a couple of weeks to many months. You may have changes in how you think or concentrate. These symptoms get better over time in most people.
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter A168 in the search box to learn more about "Learning About Bacterial Meningitis".
Current as of: March 3, 2017
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
& W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
© 2006-2017 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.