Viral Meningitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Viral meningitis is a type of meningitis that is caused by a viral infection. It is a serious illness that affects the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. The symptoms of viral meningitis can be similar to those of bacterial meningitis, but the treatment is different. Read on to learn more about viral meningitis, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.
Causes of Viral Meningitis
Viral meningitis is caused by a viral infection. The viruses that can cause meningitis include enteroviruses, herpes simplex virus, and West Nile virus. These viruses are spread through contact with an infected person's bodily fluids, such as saliva or mucus. The viruses can also be spread through contaminated food or water.
Symptoms of Viral Meningitis
The symptoms of viral meningitis can include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Stiff neck
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion
- Seizures
The symptoms of viral meningitis can be similar to those of bacterial meningitis. However, viral meningitis is usually less severe than bacterial meningitis and often resolves on its own without treatment. If you experience symptoms of meningitis, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Treatment for Viral Meningitis
There is no specific treatment for viral meningitis. Most people with viral meningitis recover on their own within 7-10 days. Treatment for viral meningitis is focused on relieving the symptoms of the illness. This may include taking over-the-counter pain medications, getting plenty of rest, and drinking fluids to stay hydrated.
In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help reduce the severity of the illness. However, these medications are not always effective, and they may have side effects. If you are diagnosed with viral meningitis, your doctor will work with you to determine the best course of treatment based on your symptoms and medical history.
Preventing Viral Meningitis
The best way to prevent viral meningitis is to practice good hygiene. This includes washing your hands regularly, especially after using the bathroom or changing a diaper. You should also avoid close contact with people who are sick, and avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with others.
If you are traveling to an area where viral meningitis is common, you should take extra precautions to protect yourself. This may include getting vaccinated against certain viruses, such as the