Meningitis

Question 1

What is meningitis?

Answer 1

An inflammation of the structures covering the brain called the meninges usually caused by infection

Question 2

What causes meningitis?

Answer 2

Usually the bacteria or virus could go down the resp tract into the bloodstream crossing the BBB and entering the CSF causing inflammation and swelling of meninges

Question 3

What are the symptoms?-In babies

Answer 3

Vomiting
Purple red splotchy rashes
Bulging of soft spots of the head
High pitched cry
Arching back

Question 4

What are the symptoms in a child older than 1 ?

Answer 4

Neck,back,head pain
Sleepiness
Irritability
Purple red splotchy rashes
Photophobia
Refuse to eat

Question 5

What can be used to diagnose meningitis?

Answer 5

Physical exam
Special tests
Blood tests
Spinal tap
CT scan or MRI

Question 6

What are the complications?

Answer 6

Hydrocephalus
Hearing loss
Brain damage
Co ordination and balance may be affected

Question 7

What is the PT management?

Answer 7

Aim is to restore function as best as possible
Preventing secondary complications
Test sensory loss,muscle weakness and reduced coordination and balance
Family education on positioning passive movements and active mobs
Sometimes needs a buggie