There also may be severe pain when moving the head or legs. Early diagnosis and treatment can result in complete recovery from meningitis, but left untreated, long-term complications and death may result. The most common type of meningitis is called viral, or aseptic, and usually occurs following a viral infection such as a nose or throat infection. Children with viral meningitis normally make a complete recovery with treatment. Bacterial meningitis can be life-threatening, especially for infants, and may cause permanent complications including blindness, deafness, paralysis and mental retardation.
Early diagnosis is very important so that proper treatment can begin promptly.
To diagnose, your physician will insert a thin needle between the bones of the lower back and withdraw a small amount of fluid. This process is called a lumbar puncture. The fluid is then examined in a laboratory to determine the cause of the infection. Your physician also may conduct blood tests and X-rays. Treatment Treatment for meningitis may include antibiotics, other medications and intravenous fluids.