What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Symptoms may include a high fever, headache, stiff neck, confusion, and sleepiness. When it is caused by a virus, it is usually mild and will go away on its own. Bacterial meningitis can be more serious and can cause long-term effects, even after the infection is gone.
Long-term Effects of Bacterial Meningitis
The long-term effects of bacterial meningitis can vary, depending on the person and the severity of the infection. Some of the most common long-term effects include hearing loss, seizures, hydrocephalus, learning disabilities, and speech and language disorders. Some people may also experience memory loss, difficulty with concentration, and mood changes. In some cases, the long-term effects of meningitis can be severe and disabling.
Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is one of the most common long-term effects of meningitis. It can be caused by swelling of the inner ear, damage to the auditory nerve, or damage to the cochlea, which is a part of the inner ear responsible for hearing. The severity of hearing loss can range from mild to profound, depending on the person and the extent of the damage. Hearing loss can be treated with hearing aids or cochlear implants.
Seizures
Seizures are another possible long-term effect of meningitis. They can be caused by damage to the brain or inflammation of the brain tissue. Seizures can range in severity and type, and can occur in people of all ages. Treatments for seizures include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes.
Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a condition that occurs when there is an accumulation of fluid in the brain. It is caused by an obstruction in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid or inflammation of the brain. Symptoms of hydrocephalus include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and changes in vision. Treatment usually involves a shunt, which is a device that is surgically placed to drain the fluid out of the brain.
Learning Disabilities
Learning disabilities can be a long-term effect of meningitis. They can affect a person’s ability to process and retain information. Learning disabilities can range from mild to severe, and they can affect a person’s ability to learn new tasks, remember information, and process information. Treatment for learning disabilities may include medications, therapy, and special education accommodations.
Speech and Language Disorders
Speech and language disorders can also be a long-term effect of meningitis. They can affect a person’s ability to understand and use language, both orally and through writing. Speech and language disorders can range from mild to severe, and can affect a person’s ability to express themselves and communicate with others. Treatment for speech and language disorders may include speech therapy and other therapies.
Memory Loss
Memory loss is another possible long-term effect of meningitis. It can be caused by damage to the brain or inflammation of the brain tissue. Memory loss can range in severity, and can affect a person’s ability to remember information and recall past events. Treatment for memory loss may include medications, lifestyle changes, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Difficulty with Concentration
Difficulty with concentration is another possible long-term effect of meningitis. It can be caused by damage to the brain or inflammation of the brain tissue. Difficulty with concentration can range in severity, and can affect a person’s ability to stay focused and on task. Treatment for difficulty with concentration may include medications, lifestyle changes, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Mood Changes
Mood changes are another possible long-term effect of meningitis. They can be caused by damage to the brain or inflammation of the brain tissue. Mood changes can range in severity, and can include depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Treatment for mood changes may include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.