Image : USA Today
Meningitis is considered to be a medical emergency and is treated in a hospital. The person is usually admitted in the intensive care unit for management. Treatment depends on the type of meningitis (cause of infection i.e. bacteria or virus) and presence of other complications (such as brain edema, seizures).
Treatment of meningitis includes:
- antibiotics or antiviral drugs and
- treatment of complications such as shock, convulsions, dehydration, brain swelling.
Other medications that may be given at the same time include:
- oxygen: to support the supply of oxygen to all the tissues and organs
- intravenous fluids (through a vein)—to correct dehydration and support fluid and electrolyte requirement of the body till you can take orally. If you are in shock, fluid may be given along with other medications to improve blood pressure and tissue perfusion (supply of blood and nutrients)
Antibiotics: People with acute bacterial meningitis are given intravenous antibiotics. The antibiotic or combination of antibiotics is selected based on the probable type of bacteria causing the infection. In most cases, a broad-spectrum antibiotic is started until the exact bacteria can be determined by tests. Antibiotics are usually given for 10-14 days or longer if response to treatment is not adequate. In bacterial meningitis cortisone-like medications are give to ensure faster recovery and reduce the risk of complications.
12/11/2012 : Dr Poonam Sachdev / Only My Health.
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