You or your child will have treatment in hospital if you have meningitis.
You will be closely monitored if you have bacterial meningitis as it can cause serious problems. Severe viral meningitis may also be treated in hospital.
Tests in hospital
You will have tests when you first arrive in hospital. This is to find out if it's a type of meningitis or septicaemia (blood poisoning).
These tests may include:
- a physical examination to look for symptoms of meningitis
- a blood test to check for bacteria or viruses
- a lumbar puncture - where a sample of fluid is taken from the spine and checked for bacteria or viruses
- a computerised tomography (CT) scan to check for any problems with the brain, such as swelling
You'll be given antibiotics
Treatment with antibiotics will usually start before the diagnosis is confirmed. Bacterial meningitis can be very serious.
The treatment will stop if tests show the condition is being caused by a virus.
Hospital treatment
If you have meningitis, you or your child will most likely feel very unwell. You will need to stay in hospital. You may need to spend time in intensive care. In some cases, you'll need treatment for several weeks.
Even after going home, it will be a while before you feel completely back to normal.
You may need more treatment and long-term support if any complications of meningitis occur.
Treatment in hospital may include:
- antibiotics directly into a vein
- fluids given into a vein to prevent dehydration
- oxygen through a face mask if you have any breathing difficulties
- steroid medicine to help reduce any swelling around the brain, in some cases
Treatment at home
You'll usually be able to go home sooner if you or your child has viral meningitis and feel OK. Doctors will discharge you if they are happy that you can continue your treatment at home.
Viral meningitis will usually get better on its own without causing any serious problems. Most people feel better within 7 to 10 days.
It can help to:
- get plenty of rest
- take painkillers for a headache or general aches
- take anti-emetic (anti-sickness) medicine for any vomiting
Preventing the spread of infection
The risk of you spreading the infection to others is generally low.
If you are in close contact with someone at high risk of infection, they may be given a dose of antibiotics. These are given as a precautionary measure.
Close contacts might be:
- people living in the same home
- school students sharing a dormitory
- college students sharing a home
- a boyfriend, girlfriend or partner
If you have only had brief contact with someone who developed meningitis, you do not usually need to take antibiotics.
Support with complications
You may need more treatment and support if you or your child have complications.
Cochlear implants to improve hearing
Cochlear implants are small devices inserted into the ears to improve hearing. These might be needed in cases of severe hearing loss.
Prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation for amputated limbs
Prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation support can both be offered if amputating any limbs is necessary.
Counselling and psychological support to deal with trauma
Counselling and psychological support can help if the trauma of having meningitis causes problems. Problems that can be improved include disturbed sleep, bedwetting or fear of doctors and hospitals.