INFLUENZA MENINGITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Influenza meningitis refers to the inflammation of the meninges, which are the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, caused by the influenza virus. Meningitis is a serious infectious disease characterized by the inflammation of the meninges, leading to symptoms such as fever, severe headache, stiffness in the neck, and sensitivity to light. In the case of influenza meningitis, the primary causative agent is the influenza virus.
Influenza meningitis usually occurs as a complication of influenza infection, specifically influenza A or B viruses. The virus can spread from the respiratory tract to the meninges, resulting in an inflammatory response in the surrounding tissues. This inflammation can cause damage to the nervous system and lead to various neurological symptoms.
Diagnosis of influenza meningitis typically involves a combination of physical examination, assessment of symptoms, and laboratory tests. Lumbar puncture, or the extraction of cerebrospinal fluid, is often performed to confirm the presence of infection and determine the causative agent.
Treatment for influenza meningitis usually involves antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, to target the underlying influenza infection. Additionally, supportive care, including pain relief, hydration, and rest, is essential for managing symptoms and promoting recovery. Prompt medical attention is crucial in cases of influenza meningitis to prevent the progression of the infection and minimize potential complications.
Common Misspellings for INFLUENZA MENINGITIS
- unfluenza meningitis
- jnfluenza meningitis
- knfluenza meningitis
- onfluenza meningitis
- 9nfluenza meningitis
- 8nfluenza meningitis
- ibfluenza meningitis
- imfluenza meningitis
- ijfluenza meningitis
- ihfluenza meningitis
- indluenza meningitis
- incluenza meningitis
- invluenza meningitis
- ingluenza meningitis
- intluenza meningitis
- inrluenza meningitis
- infkuenza meningitis
- infpuenza meningitis
- infouenza meningitis
- inflyenza meningitis
Etymology of INFLUENZA MENINGITIS
The term "influenza meningitis" includes two different medical conditions - influenza and meningitis. Let's look at the etymology of each word separately:
1. Influenza:
The word "influenza" originated from the Italian phrase "influenza di freddo", which means "influence of the cold". This phrase was used to describe the onset of certain illnesses that were believed to be caused by the influence of cold weather or astral forces. The Italian term later became "influenza" in English, referring to a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system.
2. Meningitis:
The term "meningitis" is derived from the Greek words "meninx" (meaning membrane) and "-itis" (denoting inflammation or infection). "Meninx" refers to the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
