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What are the two main types of Meningitis & their symptoms

What are the two main types of Meningitis & their symptoms
in Internal Medicine

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

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