Chances are when you hear the term meningitis you become a little bit worried. After all, you already know that this disease can be deadly. Meningitis is caused by the protective membranes that cover the spinal cord and brain becoming infected. This inflammation is often triggered by an infection in the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and the brain. At times the symptoms of meningitis will clear up on their own.
However, some forms can kill a person in just a few days. It depends greatly on the type of meningitis a person develops. Fungal meningitis is different as it is not contagious, unlike the viral and bacteria types that can spread easily. When it comes to meningitis there are several facts that you should know about the disease. Here are 10 facts about meningitis and its symptoms so that you know what to look for when it comes to this complex disease.
1. Fever
A fever can be a sign of many different types of illnesses. It could be you are simply infected with a common cold virus or even the flu. Your body simply may be fighting off some bacteria or a virus that has entered the body. Just like any type of infection that becomes serious, meningitis will often result in your temperature going out. Meningitis affects the immune system, which is why a fever develops.
In addition to having a fever, if meningitis is the cause you may also start to notice that your hands and your feet are extremely cold. At times you may even get chills to go along with a fever. As mentioned, a fever is not typically a cause for too much concern as it can be the sign of a number of different ailments. However, if your fever is high and you have some of the other symptoms on this list, it is a good idea to be tested for meningitis by your doctor.
