A dangerous way to get meningitis! Let's learn exactly about bacterial meningitis.

Today we are going to talk about a somewhat serious disease, but one that everyone should be aware of. You have probably heard the term "brain fever"? One of the most dangerous types of it is called Bacterial Meningitis. This is really no joke, because if not treated quickly, it can be life-threatening. So let's understand this well, shall we?

What is Bacterial Meningitis? Simply put...

Simply put, meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes (meninges) that surround our brain and spinal cord (the nerve cord that runs down the spine) . It is similar to swelling when our body gets injured. The main cause of this swelling is an infection in the fluid (Cerebrospinal Fluid - CSF) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Now, if this meningitis is caused by bacteria, we call it bacterial meningitis. This is the most dangerous type. If someone has these symptoms, it is very important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. Because bacterial meningitis can even cause death within a few hours. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of this.

What is the difference between viral meningitis and bacterial meningitis? Are they the same?

No, they are not the same. There are two main types of meningitis: Bacterial Meningitis and Viral Meningitis. Both involve the inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain. However, bacterial meningitis is caused by a bacterial infection, while viral meningitis is caused by a viral infection. Viral meningitis is the most common. However, it is usually not as severe as bacterial meningitis. When bacterial meningitis occurs, the tissues surrounding the brain swell, blocking blood flow to the brain. This can lead to paralysis, stroke, and sometimes even death. That is why we call bacterial meningitis a medical emergency.

What are the symptoms of bacterial meningitis? Be on the lookout for these!

Symptoms of bacterial meningitis usually appear suddenly, sometimes even within 24 hours of exposure to the germ. Therefore, it is important to be aware of these symptoms.

Symptoms in adults and older children:

Here are some signs to watch out for:

• High fever
• Unbearable headache
• Neck stiffness, as if the chin cannot be bent to touch the chest (this is a very specific symptom)
• Body aches and pains , just like when you have a cold or flu .
• Nausea and vomiting
• Photophobia - This means that the eyes feel as if they are turning blue when exposed to light or sunlight.
• Altered Mental Status
• Irritability, quick temper
• Gradually increasing drowsiness
• Some people may experience seizures and even strokes .

Symptoms in babies and young children:

The symptoms may be slightly different when a young baby develops this disease. Therefore, parents of young children should be especially aware of this.

• Vomiting with fever
• Refusal to eat or drink
• Weakness, difficulty waking up, or slow response to waking up (Lethargy)
• Frequent crying, restlessness
• The top of the head (the soft spot on the head - `Fontanelle`) appears to be bulging and swollen (this is also a dangerous sign)
• Seizures

Attention! If you suspect that you or your child has one or more of these symptoms, go to the emergency department of the nearest hospital without delay, or call 1990. Bacterial meningitis is a disease that can lead to coma and even death within hours. Therefore, speed is of the essence.

What types of bacteria cause meningitis?

There are about 50 types of bacteria that can cause bacterial meningitis. But here are some of the most common and important types:

• Group B Streptococcus
• Streptococcus pneumoniae - This is also called pneumococcal.
• Neisseria meningitidis - This is also called meningococcal.
• Haemophilus influenzae
• Listeria monocytogenes `(Listeria monocytogenes)`
• Escherichia coli (E. coli)

Although these names may seem a bit difficult, it's good that you've heard them because doctors use them.

How does bacterial meningitis develop?

Think about it, many of these disease-causing bacteria are always present in our environment, that is, in the environment around us. Sometimes these bacteria can be in your nose and throat without causing any problems. You may not get sick, but someone else from you can get this bacteria and they can get sick. These bacteria are spread from one person to another through close contact. They are most often spread through fine droplets released from the respiratory tract during times like sneezing, coughing, or kissing.

So is bacterial meningitis contagious?

Yes, it is definitely contagious. If you have bacterial meningitis, you should tell everyone who has been in close contact with you to seek medical advice immediately and, if necessary, take preventive treatment with antibiotics. This can help prevent others from getting the disease.

Who is at higher risk of developing bacterial meningitis?

Although anyone can develop this disease, some people are at higher risk.

• Young children between 1 month and 2 years of age are most likely to contract this disease.

It can also develop in adults with certain risk factors. You are at higher risk if you have:

• Substance Use Disorder
• Frequent, long-lasting ear or nose infections
• A head injury
• Pneumococcal pneumonia (a severe lung infection)
• Weakened immune system (for example, in people with HIV, those taking cancer medication)
• If the spleen has been removed
• If you have certain blood diseases, such as sickle cell disease

Additionally, if you have had surgery on your brain or spinal cord, or if you have a widespread blood infection, you are also at higher risk of developing bacterial meningitis. What's more, the disease can also spread in places where many people live in close proximity, such as university dormitories and military barracks .

What are the possible complications of bacterial meningitis? These are quite serious!

As we mentioned earlier, if not treated quickly, it can lead to paralysis, stroke, and even death. Even if the disease is cured, some people may develop long-term complications . That is, problems that continue after the disease has healed. These include:

• Recurrent seizures.
• Memory and attention difficulties.
• Problems with balance, coordination, and walking.
• Learning disabilities.
• Difficulty speaking.
• Impaired or complete loss of vision or hearing.

It's scary to hear these things, isn't it? That's why we say not to take this disease lightly.

How is bacterial meningitis diagnosed? What do doctors do?

If you suspect you have meningitis, the best thing to do is to seek medical attention right away. A doctor will ask you about your symptoms and examine you. Your doctor may then send samples of your blood, urine, and nasal/throat swabs for testing. You may also need to have a lumbar puncture (also called a spinal tap). This involves taking a small sample of the fluid around your spinal cord, called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), from your back. This fluid can be tested to determine exactly what is causing the infection and which bacteria are responsible.

The most important thing is that if a doctor suspects meningitis, they start treatment immediately, without waiting for the test results. Because every second of this is worth it.

How is bacterial meningitis treated?

Doctors treat bacterial meningitis with antibiotics. These medications are given intravenously (IV). They may also give you a corticosteroid to reduce swelling in the membranes around your brain. Once tests identify the exact bacteria that caused the infection, your doctor may change the antibiotic you are taking.

Is there a vaccine for bacterial meningitis? Yes, this is good news!

Fortunately, yes! There are several vaccines available to protect against some of the main types of bacteria that cause bacterial meningitis. These are:

• Meningococcal Vaccine: This protects against the bacteria N. meningitidis.
• Pneumococcal Vaccine: This protects against the bacteria S. pneumoniae.
• Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine: This protects against the H. influenzae bacteria.

These vaccines are included in the National Immunization Program, especially for young children. They are also available to adults at higher risk. Talk to your doctor to learn more about this.

What are other ways to prevent bacterial meningitis?

In addition to vaccinations, there are a few other simple things you can do to protect yourself from this dangerous disease.

• If you are pregnant, talk to your doctor about getting tested for Group B Streptococcus during your 36th or 37th week of pregnancy. If it is confirmed that you have the bacteria, you may be given antibiotics during labor to prevent the baby from getting it.
• If you smoke, stop.
• Sleep well.
• Stay away from people who are sick.
• Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or tissue when sneezing or coughing.

These habits can protect you from not only bacterial meningitis, but also a host of other infectious diseases.

What happens if I get bacterial meningitis? Is there hope?

Bacterial meningitis is a very serious condition. Between 10% and 15% of people who get it die. That's really sad. But if the disease is diagnosed early and treatment with antibiotics begins quickly, the chances of recovery are much higher.

When should I go to the Emergency Department (ETU) ?

Bacterial meningitis is not a common illness. However, it is a medical emergency. It can get worse very quickly. If you have any of the symptoms of this disease, seek medical help immediately. Don't delay.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

If you or someone you know has this condition, it's a good idea to ask your doctor these questions:

• How did I get bacterial meningitis?
• What kind of treatment do I need?
• When should I come back for follow-up tests?
• What should I do to prevent myself from getting bacterial meningitis again?
• Will I have long-term complications from bacterial meningitis?
• Can I spread this disease to others?

The most important things we need to remember from this (Take-Home Message)

Okay, so let's remind you of some of the most important things we've talked about:

Bacterial Meningitis is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening disease.

If you have symptoms (especially high fever, headache, stiff neck ), seek medical attention immediately.

If the disease is diagnosed early and antibiotics are started, a full recovery is possible. However, if it is delayed, long-term problems and even death can occur.

There are vaccines against this. Talk to your doctor about it and find out.

Following good health habits, such as washing hands frequently and staying away from sick people, can also help prevent this.

I hope this information is useful to you. Being aware of these things will go a long way in protecting yourself and your loved ones. Stay healthy! Bacterial meningitis, meningitis, meningitis symptoms, meningitis treatment, meningitis vaccine, infectious diseases, brain infections