brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Introduction to Meningitis
Treatment of Meningitis
For meningitis due to an infection, antimicrobial drugs General measures and drugs to relieve symptoms Treatment of meningitis depends on the cause. If meningitis is caused by an infection, appropriate antimicrobial drugs (such as antibiotics, antiviral drugs, or antifungal drugs) are used. If doctors suspect that meningitis is caused by bacteria or if people appear very ill, they treat the person with antibiotics immediately—without waiting for test results—because bacterial meningitis progresses rapidly and is life threatening. People may also be given corticosteroids to reduce swelling in the brain. General measures may help relieve symptoms when meningitis is caused by conditions such as a viral infection or a reaction to a drug. When meningitis is mild, drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking over-the-counter (OTC) drugs can help relieve fever and pain. If meningitis is severe, people are admitted to the hospital for treatment. 