Meningitis: Me Living With the After Effects

Meningitis is a serious bacterial infection of the membranes that line the brain and spinal cord. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, meningitis can lead to brain damage, hearing loss, and even death.

Meningitis & Me: Living with the After-effects

by Nicola Jane

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	355 KB
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I am a survivor of meningitis. I was diagnosed with the disease in 2015, and I spent several weeks in the hospital fighting for my life. I was lucky to survive, but I was left with some serious after effects.

One of the most significant after effects of meningitis is hearing loss. I lost about 80% of my hearing in my right ear, and I have tinnitus in both ears. This has made it difficult for me to communicate with others, and it has also affected my ability to enjoy music and other sounds.

Another after effect of meningitis is brain damage. I have some cognitive problems, including difficulty with memory and concentration. I also have some physical problems, such as fatigue and weakness. These problems have made it difficult for me to return to work and to participate in activities that I used to enjoy.

Despite the challenges I have faced, I am grateful to be alive. I am determined to live my life to the fullest, and I am committed to raising awareness of meningitis. I want others to know that meningitis is a serious disease, and I want to help prevent others from suffering from its devastating effects.

What is Meningitis?

Meningitis is a bacterial infection of the membranes that line the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are called the meninges. Meningitis can be caused by a variety of bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae.

Meningitis is most common in children under the age of 5, but it can occur at any age. It is also more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or cancer.

Symptoms of Meningitis

The symptoms of meningitis can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, meningitis may only cause a fever and headache. In more severe cases, meningitis can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Rash

Treatment for Meningitis

Meningitis is a serious medical emergency. If you think you or someone you know may have meningitis, seek medical attention immediately.

The treatment for meningitis typically involves antibiotics and supportive care. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that cause meningitis. Supportive care may include pain relievers, anti-nausea medication, and fluids.

Preventing Meningitis

There are a number of things you can do to prevent meningitis, including:

• Getting vaccinated against meningitis
• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
• Avoiding contact with people who are sick with meningitis

Meningitis Resources

If you are looking for more information about meningitis, there are a number of resources available online. Here are a few links to get you started:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Mayo Clinic
• Meningitis Foundation of America

Meningitis is a serious disease, but it is preventable and treatable. By getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, you can help protect yourself from this devastating infection.

Meningitis & Me: Living with the After-effects

by Nicola Jane

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	355 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	13 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE