Spinal+Meningitis

= **Spinal Meningitis** =

> **Some complications may be the triggering of the following;** > **.**
 * This disease can be infected by either;**
 * **viruses**
 * **bacteria**
 * **certain drugs.**
 * When diagnosed with Spinal Meningitis the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord inflame which causes a smorgasbord of symptoms. These include;**
 * **headaches**
 * **neck stiffness**
 * **fever**
 * **confusion**
 * **altered consciousness**
 * **vomiting**
 * **the inability to tolerate light and load noises**
 * **sepsis**
 * **a systemic inflammatory response syndrome**
 * **falling blood pressure**
 * **fast heart rate**
 * **high or abnormally low temperature**
 * Spinal Meningitis has potential to be life threatening with a high mortality rate if treatment is ignored. Delaying treatment will ultimately affect the outcome so the application of a wide-spectrum of antibiotics is needed as well as confirmatory tests as soon as the diagnosis is known. Frequent medical attention is recommended due to the extreme complications this infectious disease may cause.**

>
 * Both bacteria and viral spinal meningitis are contagious but not as contagious as the common cold or flu. The two can be transmitted through close contact such as;**
 * **kissing**
 * **sneezing**
 * **coughing**
 * Several vaccines exist for certain types and causes of Spinal Meningitis although they are quite expensive and may be difficult for third world countries to receive. The best way to prevent this disease is practicing good hygiene and all that it entails**.