What are the two main types of Meningitis & their symptoms
Apr 19, 2022
Viral and bacterial infections are the most common factor of meningitis. There are several other forms of meningitis. Like as include cryptococcal, which is caused by a fungal infection, and carcinomatous, which is cancer-related. These types are less common.
Viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is the most important and common type of meningitis. Viruses in the Enterovirus category cause 85 % of cases. These are more common during the summer and fall, as follows:-
- Coxsackievirus A
- Coxsackievirus B
- Echoviruses
Bacterial meningitis is contagious and caused by infection from certain bacteria. It is dangerous if left undiagnosed. Between 5 to 40 % of children and 20 to 50 % of adults with this condition die.
The most common types of bacteria that cause bacterial meningitis are follows:-
- Streptococcus pneumoniae, which is basically situated in the respiratory tract, sinuses, and nasal cavity and can cause known as pneumococcal meningitis.
- Neisseria meningitidis, which is surrounding through saliva and other respiratory fluids and causes what’s known as meningococcal meningitis.
- Haemophilus influenza, which can cause not only meningitis but infection of the blood, inflammation of the windpipe, cellulitis, and infectious arthritis
- Listeria monocytogenes, which are foodborne bacteria
Viral meningitis symptoms
Viral meningitis in infants may cause:
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability
- Sleepiness
- Fever
In adults, viral meningitis may cause:
- Headaches
- Fever
- Stiff neck
- Seizures
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Sleepiness
- Vomiting
- Less appetite
Bacterial meningitis symptoms
Bacterial meningitis symptoms develop suddenly. They may include:
- Psychological status
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Irritability
- Headache
- Fever
- Chills
- Stiff neck