Basic Info
Symptoms
Symptoms usually come on quickly, and may include: High fever; Increased sleepiness, confusion; Nausea and vomiting; ...
Causes
Pneumococcal meningitis is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae (also called pneumococcus. The bacteria is...
Tests
Physical examination will show: Fast heart rate; High temperature; Mental status changes; Stiff neck. For any patient...
Treatments
Antibiotic therapy should be started as soon as possible. Ceftriaxone is one of the most commonly used antibiotics. I...
Complications
About half of all patients have long-term complications, such as the following: Deafness; Hydrocephalus; Mental retar...
Prevention
Early treatment of pneumonia and ear infections caused by pneumococcus may decrease the risk of meningitis. There are...
Doctor Specialties
Call the local emergency number (such as 911) or go to an emergency room if you suspect meningitis in a young child w...
Basic Info