Meningitis treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Meningitis treatment
Recommended health tests for Meningitis
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. It is a condition that can disrupt the central nervous system's normal functioning, leading to serious health implications if not treated promptly. The prevalence of meningitis varies globally but is particularly significant in the so-called "meningitis belt" of sub-Saharan Africa. However, cases are found worldwide, affecting people of all ages but primarily infants, young children, and adolescents.
Causes
Meningitis can be caused by various pathogens including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Viral meningitis is the most common but typically less severe form, often resolving without specific treatment. Bacterial meningitis is more serious and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Fungal and parasitic meningitis are less common and usually occur in individuals with weakened immune systems. Non-infectious causes can include cancer, certain drugs, head injury, and autoimmune disorders.
Signs and symptoms
- Fever and chills - Severe headache that doesn’t go away - Stiff neck - Sensitivity to light (photophobia) - Nausea or vomiting - Confusion or difficulty concentrating - Sleepiness or difficulty waking up - Seizures - Lack of appetite or thirst
Diagnosing Meningitis
Diagnosing meningitis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and specific tests. A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is considered the gold standard for diagnosis, allowing analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to identify the cause. Additional tests may include blood cultures, imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to look for swelling or inflammation, and, depending on the suspected cause, specific viral or bacterial tests.
Prevention and natural treatment
Prevention of meningitis is significantly focused on vaccination, especially for bacterial forms. Good hygiene practices and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick can also reduce the risk of viral meningitis. Treatment through functional medicine emphasizes supporting the body’s natural defense mechanisms while addressing the specific cause of meningitis. For viral meningitis, this might mean rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce fever and body aches. Bacterial meningitis requires prompt antibiotic treatment. In functional medicine, adjunct treatments may include: - Nutritional support, emphasizing foods that boost the immune system. These include fruits, vegetables, and foods high in antioxidants and Omega-3 fatty acids. - Herbal supplements, such as Echinacea and garlic, which have been suggested to have immune-supporting properties. - Adequate hydration to help reduce fever and prevent dehydration. - Probiotics, particularly after a course of antibiotics, to restore healthy gut flora which plays a role in overall immunity. Other approaches include lifestyle changes like adequate sleep, stress management techniques, and avoiding substances that can weaken the immune system, such as alcohol and tobacco. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen, especially when dealing with serious conditions like meningitis.
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