Frequent signs and symptoms
-Fever.
-Headache, sometimes severe.
-Irritability.
-Eyes that have greater sensitivity to light.
-Stiff neck.
-Vomiting.
-Confusion, lethargy, and drowsiness.
Causes
While this disorder is most often caused by a virus, other types of germs can be the cause. The most common cause is a group of viruses called enteroviruses. Less often, herpes virus, mumps virus, HIV, and other viruses may be the cause. Germs are spread by contact with an infected person, or touching an object with germs on it and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
Other causes include tuberculosis, various fungi, certain diseases, parasites, exposure to certain chemicals, and some drugs
Risk increases with
-Weak immune system due to illness or drugs.
-Group homes, daycare, or schools where outbreaks may occur.
Preventive measures
Keep immunizations up-to-date against viruses such as mumps, measles, and chickenpox. Currently, there is no vaccine for the enteroviruses.
Wash hands carefully to prevent the spread of any type of germs.
expected outcomes
Most patients recover fully in 5 to 14 days. In some people, symptoms such as fatigue or lightheadedness may persist longer.
Possible complications
Complications are rare. They may occur in those with weak immune systems or the very young.
Diagnosis & treatment
Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and activities. Medical tests may include blood studies, a stool culture, and others to confirm the diagnosis.
Getting extra bed rest, treating symptoms such as fever, and drinking fluids are the usually recommended treatment regimen. No specific drugs exist to treat aseptic meningitis caused by enteroviruses. The body defenses will normally cure the disorder.
If symptoms are severe, hospital care may be needed.
medications
Nonprescription drugs for fever, nausea, or minor pain may be used.
Antibiotics may be given if there is a possibility the meningitis is caused by a bacterial infection.
Drugs may be prescribed for other causes of the meningitis once they are identified.
Activity
Rest in bed in a darkened room. Resume your normal activities as soon as symptoms improve.
Children should stay home from school or daycare until symptoms improve.
diet
No special diet. Drink 6 to 8 glasses of fluid daily.
