Viral Meningitis Treatment

Viral meningitis is the inflammation of the membranes, which protects the brain and the spinal column. As the name suggests, it is caused by viral infection. The current statistics show that more than 85% of viral meningitis is caused due to nonpolio enteroviruses. Viral meningitis is also referred to as aseptic meningitis. Viral meningitis can be diagnosed on the basis of clinical practices and epidemiologic data, but this did not prove to be much reliable. Viral meningitis generally affects young children. The symptoms include crying, a bulging soft spot, and an inability to maintain eye contact. Due to viral meningitis, the immune system of the person becomes weaker. It can also range from mild to severe. Early diagnosis can lead to better treatment of viral meningitis.

Signs and Symptoms Viral Meningitis

The symptoms of viral meningitis differ from an infant to an adult.

In newborns, signs and symptoms include:

• Stiffness in the neck
• Feeling of irritation
• Crying loudly
• Nausea
• Fever

In young children and adults, signs and symptoms include:

• Drowsiness
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Sensitivity to light
• Skin rash
• High fever
• Seizure
• Unconsciousness
• Vomiting or nausea
• Feeling of uncertainty

Diagnosis of viral meningitis

Viral meningitis can be diagnosed by some of the laboratory practices which include a test of spinal fluid obtained with a lumbar puncher (spinal tap). This test is performed by injecting a needle on the back of the patient and the fluid is taken and observed. This test is basically used to distinguish between the infections i.e. viral, bacterial or fungal. There are certain blood tests that need to be performed in order to determine viral meningitis.

Treatment of viral meningitis

There is no such specific treatment for viral meningitis, but there are some of the medications that can be used so as to reduce the effect of viral meningitis to a great extent. Treatment includes rest, hydration, anti-inflammatory medications, and antipyretics. There are different treatment options, which include:

• Prevention- Prevention can be done with proper vaccination against H. influenzae and mumps. Vaccination is given to children, since they have a weaker immune system. It is given to control epidemics in dormitories. Since viral meningitis is contagious, so it is important to wash your hand frequently, so as to reduce the risk of viral meningitis. It is also important to clean the contaminated surfaces with soap and water, in order to stop the spreading of viral meningitis.
• Drug therapy- The dose of the drug differs from one person to another. The treatment of viral meningitis aims at reducing the symptoms of fever and ache.  There are certain antibiotics that are given to the patient which includes ampicillin, cephalosporins, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Corticosteroids are also prescribed by the doctor to reduce inflammation or irritation. If seizures occur, then diazepam or phenytoins are prescribed.
• Nutrition and supplements- There are several nutrients that can strengthen the immune system. It is recommended to take multivitamin daily which contains vitamins A, C, E, D, the B-complex vitamins. Omega-3 fatty acids are also prescribed to reduce inflammation and improve immunity. Coenzyme Q10 is prescribed to take at night (at bedtime), as an antioxidant and increase the immune system activity. Alpha-lipoic acid and Resveratrol should be taken twice a day, for antioxidant effects.

One thing should be kept in mind that any disease should not be ignored; rather if needed, take medical assistance. Viral meningitis is not a severe form of meningitis, but if left untreated can lead to a life threatening condition.

Related posts:

• Viral Meningitis Symptoms
• Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis
• Types of Meningitis
• Meningitis Treatment