Meningitis is a condition which is characterized by inflammation of the meninges i.e. the layers that cover the brain and the spinal cord. In general the condition can affect individuals of all age group, however they are more frequently observed in individuals living in boarding schools, hostels or in close quarters.
While early diagnosis can help in the prompt management of the condition, inadequate treatment may lead to life threatening consequences.
How Do You Get Spinal Meningitis?
Some of the common causes for spinal meningitis include the following,
- Viruses: Viral meningitis is more common and is a less serious form. While its manifestation is very similar to flu, it remains undiagnosed in most cases.
- Bacteria: Bacterial meningitis is more severe form and is often considered to be life threatening. Streptococci, Pneumococci and Meningiococci are some of the common bacteria that can lead to bacterial meningitis. Bacteria enter the meningis through the blood stream or the skin.
- Severe head trauma or a local bacterial infection like an ear infection or a sinus infection can also increase the risk of a spinal meningitis.
Symptoms Of Spinal Meningitis
The symptoms may vary depending upon the general health condition, age and nature of infection. Also the symptoms may manifest either immediately or after several days of the infection, depending upon the individuals overall immune status. Some of the common symptoms associated include,
- Medium to high grade fever depending upon the nature of the infection i.e. viral or bacterial.
- Irritability with severe headache and reduced consciousness.
- Stiffness of the neck along with rash on the skin is one of the most indicative symptoms.
- Some patients may complain of photo-phobia or increased sensitivity to light.
- Seizures may occur depending upon the pace of spread of the condition.
- Excessive sweating, vomiting and loss of appetite are experienced in more severe cases.
Natural Remedies For Spinal Meningitis
Viral meningitis doesn’t require any specific treatment since in most cases the symptoms are self limiting and resolve spontaneously within 7 to 10 days. However bacterial meningitis may require prompt treatment to avoid complications. In most cases of bacterial meningitis, hospitalization is inevitable and IV antibiotics are given to hasten the recovery and control the spread of the infection.
Lumbar puncture is performed to collect cerebrospinal fluid sample that is examined to review presence of bacteria or viruses that may lead to the infection. Some of the simple treatment protocols for less severe forms of meningitis include,
- Rest is essential. Intake of fluids is recommended in order to help flushing of the toxins from the system and keeping the individual hydrated.
- Homeopathic drug Gelsimium is given to improve the symptoms of neck stiffness and pain. Gelsimium should be taken in low dosage and repeated about twice a day.
- Prepare a paste by mixing equal parts of garlic, ginger and turmeric. Add some portion of raw honey to this paste and consume it thrice a day. Garlic and turmeric have strong anti-inflammatory and anti bacterial properties, while honey is a natural anti-microbial agent. Ginger will help alleviate associated symptoms like neck stiffness, vomiting and nausea and also help in improving the appetite.
- Include vitamin C and biotin supplements in your diet to boost the natural immunity and deal with the infection promptly.