  |
|
|
|
Protect Your Teen From MeningitisWays to Talk About and Prevent this Viral Inflammation of the Brain
Teens are at especially high risk for contracting meningitis. Know about the disease, in order to help protect your teen better.
Meningitis is a viral inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It is highly contagious and is potentially deadly. It affects people of all ages, but teens are especially susceptible to this virus. When talking about this disease, it is important to note that there are several different types, each one with its own severity. Both viral and bacterial are quite common. This is a disease that many parents worry about and you should learn what you can do to protect your teen from meningitis. Types of MeningitisOf the two types of meningitis, viral is probably the most common and coincidentally, the easiest to treat. Viral meningitis is spread through mucus, saliva and feces. It can spread through kissing, sharing food and drinks, or touching infected surfaces. You can see why this form of meningitis is the most common among teens. They often share a little too much and often have poor hygiene, thus spreading this disease. Bacterial meningitis is more serious and can cause death if not treated promptly. This is most often spread through respiratory secretions, such as coughing, sneezing and kissing. Teaching Your Teen About MeningitisAs a parent, you need to arm your child with information about this disease. Your child should know that they are at risk of “catching” this virus, even if they don’t kiss. Some teens think that this is the only way of getting meningitis. However, they need to know that sharing food and drinks and not washing their hands can also spread this disease. Send your teen to school with antibacterial hand gel and ask her to get in the habit of using it frequently. Teens can prevent this virus if they are vigilant. If your child has not been vaccinated for meningitis, you might want to check with your doctor or pediatrician. Some school districts require this vaccine while others do not. Signs of MeningitisThe following are all common signs of meningitis. Show these to your child and stay on the look out for seizures, extreme feelings of tiredness, confusion, fever, stiff neck or muscles, headaches, vomiting, sensitivity to light and nausea. Some of those that suffer from this disease may have only one or all of the symptoms depending on the severity. If your teen has been in contact with someone that has been diagnosed with meningitis, you should speak to your doctor and get preventative treatment. Your teen may need to stay in seclusion for several days until the threat of the disease has passed. Antibiotics may also be prescribed. Notes:
The copyright of the article Protect Your Teen From Meningitis in Teen Health is owned by Denise Oliveri. Permission to republish Protect Your Teen From Meningitis in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
|
|
|
|
