Viral
You can't take a knife on a plane anymore, but you can get on carrying a virus - David Quammen
image by: Meningitis Now
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Jane’s story
The lack of understanding by some of the healthcare professionals she saw was really frustrating for Jane – one reason why she’s sharing her viral meningitis story.
A lack of understanding
I woke up at about 5am on March 9th 2012 with a severe headache in the back of my neck. I thought I had woken up too early and tried to get back to sleep. By 7.30am I was feeling sick and had pins and needles in my arms. Two weeks previously I had had a bad dose of flu, probably the worst I have ever had, and was off work for a week.
As there was no one at home I called a friend as I just didn’t know what to do, and she told me to call an ambulance. An emergency car…
Resources
Viral meningitis, the facts
As viral meningitis is rarely life-threatening, generally a lot less is understood about it and the effect it has on sufferers. People can be left feeling that they are not taken seriously and are often not offered information and support during their recovery. This fact sheet can help you explain to others what can be expected following viral meningitis.
Viral Meningitis: a real pain in the neck!.
A current review of viral meningitis.
Viral meningoencephalitis: a review of diagnostic methods
Viral encephalitis is a medical emergency. The prognosis depends mainly on the pathogen and host immunologic state. Correct immediate diagnosis and introduction of symptomatic and specific therapy has a dramatic influence upon survival and reduces the extent of permanent brain injury.
Jane’s story
The lack of understanding by some of the healthcare professionals she saw was really frustrating for Jane – one reason why she’s sharing her viral meningitis story.
Meningitis Now
Viral meningitis is more common than bacterial meningitis and, although rarely life-threatening, it can make people very unwell. For some, the after-effects can be life-changing.
Meningitis Research Foundation
Viruses probably account for most cases of meningitis and are an important cause of admission to hospital. Symptoms of viral meningitis include headache, dislike of bright lights, neck stiffness, fever and nausea/vomiting. Individuals may also develop a rash or have muscle pain. People affected normally recover without medical treatment.
CDC
Meningitis is an inflammation of the tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord. Viral meningitis is the most common type of meningitis. It is often less severe than bacterial meningitis, and most people usually get better on their own (without treatment). However, infants younger than 1 month old and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to have severe illness.
Everyday Health
The most common form of meningitis, viral meningitis is typically mild and resolves without treatment.
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