Despite the pain and discomfort it causes, meningitis is treatable disease. If you are not used to using natural medicines, you can opt for those prescribed by your doctor. However, if you prefer natural treatments, you can always try home remedies. They are all effective and guaranteed to be safe. If you want to learn more, keep reading!
Meningitis: What is It?
Meningitis is one of the most dreaded conditions faced in the modern world, not necessarily because of its side effects, but because it can be fatal. The condition is defined as an acute inflammation of the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain. As we know, the brain and the spinal cord are two of the most important and delicate parts of the body.
Inflammation of the spinal cord and brain can be caused by fungal, viral or bacterial infections. In some cases, it can even be caused by drugs. The presentation of meningitis is quite similar to that of the cold or flu, but the condition has a range of symptoms and risk of fatality from person to person. Inflammation frequently reaches severe levels before the condition is properly diagnosed and treatment begins.
The infection occurs most often in young adults, teens and even children, but older adults are also prone to the illness. Those with long-term health conditions, like a weakened immune system, are also more susceptible.
Kinds of Meningitis
There are two primary kinds of meningitis, including:
- Bacterial meningitis. This kind of meningitis isn’t actually that common. However, it can be very fatal, so it must be treated immediately to avert further brain damage or death.
- Viral meningitis. Unlike the first one, this kind of meningitis is common. It doesn’t usually result in any serious illnesses, but in some severe causes, it may cause lengthy seizures and fever.
Meningitis: What are its causes?
As told by the fact that each type of meningitis has a different name, they also have different causes; bacterial meningitis is caused by bacteria while viral meningitis is caused by viruses. It can also be caused by other organisms, drugs or medications. The condition is very contagious, meaning an infected person can pass the germs onto someone else through sneezing, coughing or close contact.
Meningitis: What are its Symptoms?
The following are some of the most common symptoms of meningitis among young adults and teens:
- Seizures
- Trouble staying awake
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Fever
- Painful and stiff neck
People with medical conditions, older adults and children may also have the following symptoms:
- Older adults with medical problems may experience a slight headache.
- Young children may act like they have the flu, developing a cough and having difficulty breathing.
- Babies may become cranky and unwilling to eat. They may also develop rashes.
Meningitis: Prevention
Here are some steps that you can take to lower the risk of getting meningitis:
- Avoid contact with wild animals.
- Avoid getting bitten by insects like bugs, ticks and mosquitoes.
- Wash your hands more often if you are taking care of a patient that has it.
- Make sure to separate the patient with meningitis from the other people at home.
- Stay away from those who have meningitis.
Home Remedies for Meningitis
Here are some of the best home remedies for meningitis:
Ginseng. The active components of ginseng help eliminate infections and spped up the recovery process.
Neutral bath. Bathing in lukewarm or body-temperature water will help with blood circulation.
Cold packs. Using cold packs regularly helps keep fever down. Furthermore, it also helps fight the chance of infection.
Bed rest. This is probably one of the easiest home remedies for meningitis.
Chlorella. This small plant has a big effect on the illness. Since it helps in boost the production of red blood cells, oxygenation increases.
Olive leaf extract. This extract is helps reduce inflammation, ease discomfort and pain and lower the fever associated with the illness.
Garlic. The allicin in the garlic contains a powerful antioxidant property that has both antibacterial and antiviral effects, making it perfect for getting rid of infections.
