Aseptic meningitisis a nonbacterial throw in of meningitis.
Meningitis pops up if the tissue layers and fluid that protect the spinal cordcalled the meningesbecome inflamed.
Aseptic meningitis is usually not life-threatening, but the symptoms can be distressing.
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When it is brought on by a virus, it is called viral meningitis.
Often, aseptic meningitis improves on its own without causing brain or spinal cord damage.
Its important to rest while youre recovering.
These are tissues that cover your brain and spinal cord.
When because of a bacteria, meningitis can be severe.
“Aseptic” means that the condition is not due to a bacterial infection.
In contrast,bacterial meningitisis described as septic meningitis.
Aseptic meningitis is the most common form of meningitis, with around eight cases per 100,000 adults reported annually.
What are meninges and the cerebrospinal fluid?
Aseptic meningitis is more common than the bacterial form of the disease.
Usually, it occurs due to viral exposure.
For example, it can occur after a cold.
Aseptic meningitis can also have non-viral causes, such as:
How contagious is viral meningitis?
Symptoms
Meningitis of any pop in can cause severe distress and discomfort.
The symptoms can begin gradually or abruptly.
The symptoms of aseptic meningitis can be similar to the symptoms of any other pop in of meningitis.
Importance of Evaluation
Other serious health issues can cause symptoms similar to aseptic meningitis.
Complications
In some instances, aseptic meningitis can cause serious complications.
Complications of aseptic meningitis can include:
Anyone can experience complications, even with the best medical care.
Other risk factors include having a spinal procedure or taking medication that may cause aseptic meningitis.
These tests can identify problems like a stroke, and they might show signs of meningeal inflammation.
Alumbar punctureis a test in which CSF is collected and examined.
It is the definitive way to diagnose an infection or inflammation in the CSF.
It can show protein and white blood cell changes consistent with meningitis.
Infectious viruses, fungus, or parasites might be identified in the fluid.
Treatment
Medical management of aseptic meningitis involves symptomatic therapy and possibly treatment for the cause.
If complications arise, they need to be treated.
Specific antimicrobial treatments may be needed for certain infectious types of aseptic meningitis.
Anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive medication, such as steroids, might sometimes be used to treat inflammation.
Most people experience complete recovery within a few weeks.
What is the death rate of aseptic meningitis?
Aseptic meningitis is generally considered to be much less dangerous than bacterial meningitis.
Coping
Aseptic meningitis can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort.
It’s important to get some rest and stay comfortable.
A warm blanket, dim lights, and a quiet environment will help you feel a little better.
While it can be challenging, its important to stay hydrated.
Be sure to stay hydrated.
Call your healthcare provider immediately if your symptoms get worse or you develop new symptoms.
Aseptic meningitis can worsen or cause serious health problems.
Any complications must be diagnosed and treated promptly.
When your meningitis resolves, you might have residual head or neck pain, photophobia, or trouble concentrating.
These effects should fully resolve within a few months.
In the meantime, your healthcare provider may recommend treatment for comfort until these issues improve.
Summary
Aseptic meningitis is nonbacterial inflammation or infection of the meninges and CSF.
The condition is usually mild and self-limited, typically resolving on its own.
Sometimes treatment is necessary to control symptoms and prevent long-term effects.
Serious complications require treatment.
Meningitis may cause persistent seizures, necessitating long-term treatment with anti-seizure medication.
Mount HR, Boyle SD.Aseptic and bacterial meningitis: Evaluation, treatment, and prevention.Am Fam Physician.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About viral meningitis.
2022;14(2):e22062.
