Viral vs. bacterial meningitis: Symptoms and treatment - Medical News Today
Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the lining of the brain. It typically occurs due to an infection, which may be viral or bacterial. In adults and older children, the most common type of meningitis is viral. This information comes from the Meningitis Research Foundation. Meningitis can also result from the use of certain medications, as well as from injury or a medical condition such as cancer. The severity of the inflammation and the best treatment depends on the cause. In this article, we look at the similarities and differences between viral and bacterial meningitis, including their symptoms, treatments, and outlook. Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, the brain's lining. The meninges consist of three protective tissue layers that surround and support the brain. Meningitis occurs when one or more layers becomes inflamed. Viral meningitis happens when a virus spreads to the brain or spinal cord. Different viruses can cause it, but in the United States, non-poli...