The brain is one of those organs that is best protected from any infections and injuries. Nevertheless, if the immune system is weakened, harmful bacteria can still enter it, causing many diseases to develop. One of these diseases is meningism. This is a pathology that is very similar in symptoms to meningitis, but differs in the absence of an inflammatory process. Most of all, children are affected by this disease. The disease most often manifests itself against the background of the inflammatory process of the respiratory tract or chest. However, no abnormalities are observed in the cerebrospinal fluid.
Causes of occurrence
The phenomenon of meningism is possible not only against the background of acute respiratory viral infections or a fungal infection. A frequent provocateur of the disease are poisonous fumes of chemical elements and allergic reactions to certain pharmaceutical preparations.
Also, pathology can occur against the background of infectious diseases or furunculosis, due to the presence of benign neoplasms. Diabetes mellitus often becomes the cause of the development of the disease, as well as an unhealthy lifestyle (living in basements or barracks).
Meningism in children can develop against the background of the presence of various parasites in the body or high blood pressure.
Clinical picture
The manifestation of symptoms occurs very quickly, therefore, the diagnosis is not difficult.
As a rule, it all starts with a chill, which gradually flows into a fever. Then confusion manifests itself clearly, up to amnesia and mental disorders. The patient can react sharply to sounds and light; children usually hide under a blanket or turn away from the wall. Often there is nausea. Some patients have problems with extension of the limbs and neck.
The nasolabial triangle acquires a white hue and the coordination of movements is almost completely disrupted. Toddlers usually become distracted and anxious for no reason.
The patient loses his appetite, but a person is tormented by a strong thirst. Possible pressure drop while increasing heart rate and respiratory failure. The appearance of a rash and seizures is also observed. However, this is only part of the possible manifestations of the disease.
Meningism is a clinical syndrome, therefore, in comparison with miningitis, the symptoms are not so pronounced.
Establishing diagnosis
Diagnostic measures require a preliminary external examination of the patient to determine the presence of changes in the psyche and fever.
Basic information about the presence or absence of the disease is scooped after a lumbar puncture. In some cases, more research is required. Standard diagnostic measures also include analysis of urine and blood, LHC and UAC.
Health care
The presence of confirming symptoms of meningism after an accurate diagnosis requires immediate medical attention. All events are held exclusively in a hospital setting. First of all, therapy is aimed at reducing intracranial pressure. Depending on the origin of the disease, treatment tactics are chosen. When it comes to bacterial origin, antibacterial drugs are prescribed. Accordingly, if the disease is caused by viruses, then antiviral therapy is performed.
Also, drugs are prescribed to the patient to reduce the seizure syndrome, body temperature and relieve pain.
Possible complications
Meningism is a serious disease that, if not properly treated, quickly turns into meningitis, accompanied by epileptic seizures and even paralysis of the limbs.
The most unfavorable outcome cannot be ruled out - death.
Preventive actions
In some cases, the usual prophylaxis can prevent the disease. If it happened that a loved one fell ill, then while he is being treated, it is better to avoid any contact with him. In the event that contact cannot be avoided, hands should be washed thoroughly after it and all hygiene rules must be strictly observed.
In the event of an unstable epidemiological situation in a particular region, it is better to refuse trips to this area. And if you live there, it is better to avoid places with a large crowd of people.
Never start any disease, they should not become chronic. Watch your immunity. Always maintain cleanliness in the house, it is impossible for rodents and insects to live next to a person.
And remember that meningism is not a disease from which there are vaccinations.