Meningitis is an infection of the membranes (meninges) that protect the spinal cord and brain. When the membranes become infected, they swell and press on the spinal cord or brain. This can cause life-threatening problems. Meningitis symptoms strike suddenly and worsen quickly.
What are the long term side effects of meningitis?
Long-term effects of bacterial meningitis
- speech problems.
- issues with memory.
- loss of coordination.
- learning difficulties.
- hearing loss.
- vision loss.
- seizures.
- hydrocephalus, which is a buildup of fluid in the brain.
Can you recover from meningitis in the brain?
Bacterial meningitis is serious. Some people with the infection die and death can occur in as little as a few hours. However, most people recover from bacterial meningitis. Those who do recover can have permanent disabilities, such as brain damage, hearing loss, and learning disabilities.
