Bacterial Meningitis Rash Can Be Very Dangerous

A very nasty red or deep pink rash that appears on the skin can be an indication of the meningitis rash. There are usually other symptoms that will accompany the rash. The Meningococcal bacterium enters the blood stream and releases its poison (endotoxins) from the outer coating and starts to damage the blood vessels.

When the meningococcal bacterium starts to multiply in the bloodstream, they start discharging poisons known as endotoxins. The cause can be either bacterial or viral and some medicines have also been known to cause it. When people contract the viral form of the disease, they can recover in a fairly short period of time, opposed to the bacterial form which is much rarer, but much more serious. The bacterial type needs to be treated straight away to avoid serious side effects some times leading to death. It is highly contagious.

The people that are most at risk from the disease are young adults, teens and children along with older adults and anyone that has a weak immune system. A certain drug have also been linked to it. It has been removed from sale in 2004 by the manufacturer.

Both the viral and bacterial kinds will display the same types of symptoms. The most common of these include fever, severe headaches, sore and stiff neck muscles, vomiting, confusion and seizures. The rash can be accompanied by general tiredness and weak aching muscles. Dizzy spells can occur as well as sensitivity to bright lights and tingling sensations.

As many of these symptoms can be confused with the flu it is important to see a doctor immediately if they occur. With the viral form these symptoms can appear gradually and may be more difficult to detect particularly if you have been suffering from other health problems. Usually the symptoms will appear suddenly and this will be a good indication to seek help immediately.

To determine if you have viral or bacterial meningitis a lumber puncture or spinal tap will be necessary. This is where fluid will be drawn from the base of the spine and tested to determine the type of infection you have. A doctor may also conduct a CT scan or MRI to check for swelling. To check for infection a urine test, chest X-ray, blood culture or biopsy of the rash may be necessary.

Depending on the type of disease, treatment may be different for each person. Antibiotics are prescribed to those who have the bacterial type. This is generally done through an IV for faster results. More fluids are given through the IV to prevent dehydration, which commonly occurs. Basic medication can be given if the patient has any type of fever or if there is a risk of seizures or brain pressure.

You may be prescribed medicines to reduce your fever, prevent seizures and release pressure on the brain. If you have difficulty in breathing, oxygen may also be administered. The process and options will be determined by your doctor and should be discussed thoroughly with you.

There are now vaccines than can help stop this infection, considering it can be spread through close contact with an infected person. People living in close proximity to a person showing the meningitis rash should be immunized or checked by a doctor as soon as possible.This is a warning sign not to be taken lightly.