Meningitis has a number of causes, not all of which are fully understood, including Aseptic Meningitis. In general, Meningitis is an inflammation of the three membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are called the meninges and protect the brain from a host of pathogens and trauma. When someone contracts meningitis, their membranes become inflamed and swollen, which could potentially, physically, damage the brain as well as make the victim susceptible to other bacterial and viral infection.
Meningitis is an affliction with which victims cannot risk oversight. Although some forms of Meningitis can be overcome without treatment, the chance of death is also present in other forms and absolutely cannot be ignored. Some signs of Meningitis are as follows:
- Difficulty concentrating and confusion
- No interest in eating or drinking fluids
- Seizures
- Sensitivity to light
- Severe headache much different from other headaches
- Skin rash
- Sleepiness and difficulty waking up
- Stiff neck
- Sudden high fever
- Vomiting with headache
While there is a possibility that viral Meningitis may improve without medical attention, Bacterial Meningitis is an extreme situation, which carries the possibility of permanent brain or spinal cord damage and even death. Bacterial Meningitis can become fatal in a matter of days.
Without the help of a medical professional and spinal fluid tests, there is no way to distinguish if whether your case of Meningitis is bacterial, viral, or aseptic. If your case is in fact Meningitis, it is important to seek medical attention with those you have come in contact with, as well, since Meningitis is contagious. These family members will need to take preventative medication to prevent infection.
There are a number of risk factors that put certain individuals at higher risk, especially if they are taking a drug like Lamictal. These risks are especially heightened by:
- Age – Individuals younger than 5 years old contract most Meningitis cases. It commonly affects people under the age of 20 and especially those living in community settings such as college campuses, dorms, military bases, boarding schools and childcare facilities.
- Compromised Immune System – Most people who are aware of this condition are already aware of the risks, but if you have a weakened immune system, you carry a heightened risk for Meningitis infection.
- Pregnancy – Mothers to be are at higher risk for Listeria bacteria, which also cause Meningitis. If the mother contracts Meningitis, the unborn baby is at risk as well.
- Skipping Vaccinations – if you haven’t completed your vaccination schedule, Meningitis has a greater possibility of being contracted by you.
While there are a few forms of Meningitis that are viral, fungal or bacterial, Aseptic Meningitis is caused as a reaction to drug allergies, chemical reactions, cancers, and inflammatory diseases. If your case of Meningitis is in fact a reaction to a drug such a Lamotrigine or Lamictal, as it is known, it is important to discontinue use of Lamictal, but not until your medical professional has instructed you to do so. If you or a loved one has experienced symptoms similar to the above-mentioned symptoms and has recently started taking Lamictal or Lamotrigine, report it to your medical professional immediately, because you could be at risk for other severe ailments.
After contacting your healthcare provider, you should contact the professionals at LamictalLawyer.com or Wormington & Bollinger to get the best team of attorneys on your side and to possibly help you get the compensation that you are owed.