Meningitisis inflammation of the meninges, the tissue that covers and protects the brain andspinal cord.
When meningitis is due to infection, it is usually bacterial or viral.
The infectious causes of meningitis are contagious and spread by fluids that contain the infectious organisms.
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Sneezing, coughing, kissing, or even touching contaminated objects can spread the infection.
Bacterial Infection
There are several types of bacteria that cause meningitis.
Each different pop in of bacteria is more likely to cause meningitis in a certain age group.
Sometimes neurosurgical procedures or a lumbar puncture can cause aseptic meningitis, although it is very uncommon.
STD Status
There are severalsexually transmitted diseasesthat can lead to meningitis.For example, advanced syphilis infection can become meningitis.
Lifestyle Risk Factors
A number of lifestyle risk factors have been associated with meningitis risk.
Similarly, camping groups and sports teams that travel together are also at risk of getting meningitis.
Traveling
Traveling may increase your risk for meningococcal disease.
This can put you at an increased risk of developing meningitis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bacterial meningitis is typically the most dangerous.
Even though most people recover, it can worsen quickly and become life-threatening in just a few hours.
It also has the potential to cause disabilities, including brain damage and hearing loss.
Commonsymptoms of meningitisinclude:
If you suspect that you have meningitis, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
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