How does meningitis cause dehydration?
Bacterial meningitis can cause overhydration by preventing the body from eliminating fluids the way it should. This can lead to hyponatremia, an electrolyte disturbance in which the sodium concentration in the blood plasma is lower than normal. “Hyponatremia can cause seizures and brain [swelling],” adds Litman.
Why is fluid and electrolyte replacement necessary for meningitis?
Careful management of fluid and electrolyte balance is important in the treatment of meningitis. Over or under hydration are associated with adverse outcomes. Many children have increased antidiuretic hormone secretion, and some will have dehydration due to vomiting, poor fluid intake or septic shock.
How can you prevent meningitis symptoms?
These steps can help prevent meningitis:
- Wash your hands. Careful hand-washing helps prevent the spread of germs.
- Practice good hygiene. Don’t share drinks, foods, straws, eating utensils, lip balms or toothbrushes with anyone else.
- Stay healthy.
- Cover your mouth.
- If you’re pregnant, take care with food.
Do you restrict fluid intake with meningitis?
Some researchers have concluded that fluid restriction will avoid exacerbating cerebral oedema and may improve neurological outcome (Brown 1994). However, clinical dehydration has also been found in children with acute bacterial meningitis without any accompanying significant risk of mortality (Duke 1998).
What organs are affected by meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. A bacterial or viral infection of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord usually causes the swelling. However, injuries, cancer, certain drugs, and other types of infections also can cause meningitis.
What antibiotic treats meningitis?
Commonly used meningitis treatments include a class of antibiotics called cephalosporins, especially Claforan (cefotaxime) and Rocephin (ceftriaxone). Various penicillin-type antibiotics, aminoglycoside drugs such as gentamicin, and others, are also used.
What are complications of meningitis?
Main complications hearing loss, which may be partial or total – people who have had meningitis will usually have a hearing test after a few weeks to check for any problems. recurrent seizures (epilepsy) problems with memory and concentration. co-ordination, movement and balance problems.
How can you test for meningitis at home?
The meningitis glass test
- Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin.
- Spots/rash may fade at first.
- Keep checking.
- Fever with spots/rash that do not fade under pressure is a medical emergency.
- Do not wait for a rash. If someone is ill and getting worse, get medical help immediately.
What are the nursing management of meningitis?
Meningitis can be fatal. Nursing staff need to prioritise antibiotic treatment, as delays are associated with poorer outcomes. Testing the urine specific gravity to assess fluid status can be useful, especially in infants and children with a labile fluid status, and those on full maintenance intravenous fluids.
How do I know if my neck pain is meningitis?
Your doctor may also look for two specific signs of a meningitis infection: Brudzinski’s sign: Your doctor will pull your neck forward slowly. Neck stiffness and involuntary bending of the knees and hips can indicate meningitis.
