Clinical Services

Meningitis Treatment in Leesburg, Virginia

What is Meningitis?

The thin tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord is called the meninges. If the meninges is inflamed due to infection or a reaction, meningitis is the result. Although the most common type of meningitis is viral, there are a number of different types that can be deadly if not treated properly.

Dr. Seth Tuwiner provides comprehensive testing and treatment for meningitis at his office in Leesburg, VA. Learn more about your treatment options and call the Virginia Center for Neuroscience today at (703) 293-5244.

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What are the Types of Meningitis? 

While there are a number of types of meningitis, there are three main classifications:

Type Description Symptoms

 

Viral Meningitis


The most common and least severe type of meningitis, this is often caused by viruses like mumps, measles, and influenza. It is spread by close contact to a person with meningitis, or via mosquitoes, fecal matter, or other contamination. It may resolve on its own. 


Fever, Headache, Irritability, Light Sensitivity, Nausea, Vomiting, Lethargy, Sleepiness

 

 

Bacterial Meningitis


While not as common as viral meningitis, this type is very serious and can be deadly, especially if associated with sepsis. Babies are at an increased risk of getting this type. The streptococcus bacteria is one of the consistent causes. Treatment is necessary.

 

 

Nausea, Vomiting, Light Sensitivity, Altered Mental State

 

Fungal Meningitis


A very rare type of meningitis that affects the blood and spinal cord, this typically occurs in people with weakened immune systems due to diseases like HIV or cancer. Cryptococcus is the most common cause. Treatment is necessary. 

 


Stiff Neck, Fever, Nausea, Headache, Light Sensitivity, Altered Mental State 

Treatment of Meningitis at the Virginia Center for Neuroscience

The type of treatment you receive will heavily depend on the type of meningitis for which you have been diagnosed. After undergoing samples of blood or cerebrospinal fluid, or a swab of your nose and throat for viral meningitis, your diagnosis will be made.

If you are experiencing viral meningitis, you should recover on your own within 7 to 10 days. However, if you have a weakened immune system, you may be placed on antiviral medications in order to fully recover.

If you are experiencing fungal meningitis, you may be admitted to the hospital and given doses of anti-fungal medications through an IV. However, this will all depend on the severity. 

If you are experiencing bacterial meningitis, there are a series of antibiotics that will be given to you. It is important to start these as early as possible.

If you feel as though you have contracted meningitis, or have further questions about treatment options, contact the office of Seth Tuwiner, MD today at (703) 293-5244 to schedule an appointment. 

Schedule an Appointment in Northern Virginia Today

Dr. Seth Tuwiner is a board certified neurologist in Lansdowne, VA. He has a subspeciality in Neuromuscular disease, epilepsy, and clinical neurophysiology. Need more information on to schedule an appointment? Contact the Virginia Center for Neuroscience today at 703-293-5244.