Viral Meningits

[RobynCos]

My husband was just discharged from the hospital 6 days ago for his 2nd visit for viral meningits.  His 1st admit date was March 5, 2007.  Now, 3 weeks later, he is still having trouble walking and moving around. He has some neck pain and lower back pain.  The doctor said it was due to being laid up in the hospital for 2 weeks.  We have heard it takes a long time to get over.  Can anyone give us an update as to how they are coming along?  We would appreciate any information yo can give us.  Thanks!


This discussion is related to Diagnosed with Viral Meningitis / Still have symptoms 7 weeks later.

[needingsomeanswers]

I'm on day 5 of viral meningitis.  I had meningitis also in january 2009.  was in the hospital 10 days.  why am I getting it again?  are these cognitive issues ever gonna go away?  I have trouble getting some words from my brain to my lips.  short term memory *****.  learning ability has decreased.  sometimes when talking i just stop and stare.  incredibly depressed about this.  been on zoloft since last time.  was told i have post tramatic stress due to a life threatening event.  This is just really getting me down.  Am I gonna have to deal with this disease off and on forever?    I just want some answers------

[CindyM2136]

My husband had his first bout with menigitis Nov. 2009.  He just got home from the hospital today with viral menigitis.  The first time he was in bed for a month.  This time I took him to the ER because he was in bad shape.  They did a lumbar puncture(thank God) and finally diagnosed him.  He is suffering from confusion.  It is very sad to see.  I have been combing the internet for answers and am so happy I found you guys!  

[Pollianna]

H Robyn,

6 months ago I was diagnosed with viral meningitis.  I still have problems walking & an ENT specialist suggested my inner ear has been damaged leaving my balance impaired and leaving me with chronic tinnitus.  I have been told that both of these after effects may stay forever.  I still have the headache and stiff neck, cognitive problems, and I am very tired every day.  However, I have learned to try to stay positive, and accepted I have to "live with" my current after-effects, rather than feeling impatient with them! So I move slowly around the house, and try to look after myself in terms of nutrition, rest, and stress, which in this modern fast-paced world is something many of us forget how to do.  I have found the support of my family to be essential and actually it has brought me closer to them.  It took me a few months to learn, but you have to learn to listen to what your body needs each day, because it can vary.  As a sufferer you have to try not to feel embarrassed or be impatient with yourself, but take it as an opportunity to learn about looking after yourself properly.  The best advice I can give is to move slowly (to gain confidence in walking again - there is also the possibility of VRT therapy) and to learn to ask people around you for emotional and practical support.  It is often hard for those around you to understand how long it takes to get well, or how drained you can regularly feel, but it is important to try not to do too much too quickly. I have found that sticking to a healthy daily routine (8 hours of sleep, 3 healthy meals, relaxation, rest) make my after-effects are more manageable. Pollianna x  

[Old_Scout]

Wouldn't you know it.... I'm  feeling much better today. Good night sleep with much of the anxiety gone and mental acuity on the upswing - knock on wood. Hope it continues. I am so ready to return to normal!!

I get a little paranoid when reading things like "in some cases the affects can be permanent". I think I just need to be patient with myself. Thanks for everybody's feedback.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
Recovery from viral meningitis is usually complete although some people need lot of support and care over weeks and months after discharge. It is impossible to predict the exact time for recovery. I would suggest you to be patient and make sure your husband is not under undue stress.
Do not try too much too soon. You can also try complementary therapies like acupressure and aromatherapy.

[jimmyca69]

Hi both

Please see my problem on the forum regarding after effects of viral meningitis to see if you can relate to them.

As for what you guys have mentioned - in hospital i found it very unhelpful, my headaches were persistant and laying around all day i dont think helped. When i got home though immediately i felt better.

Its been a week since i was discharged and i can happily wander around the house, make myself lunch and breakfast - watch tv etc etc. I get tired easily but i was warned about this. For a few days after return i did get the memory thing and concentration wasnt good but these seem to have passed for me.

I have read up a lot on it - as i assume you have too - and what you describe does seem normal for after effects its just different to each person.

Robyncos - did your husband have the lumbar puncture? if so i know my lower back hurts still from that especially if sitting down for long periods.

What other effects other than mentioned are people suffering from? how are the headaches? mine were bad a couple of days into recovery but now they seem to be fading away for me.

[Old_Scout]

Hi Robyn....

I'm curious about the same thing.

I checked myself in to the ER on 8/28/2008 with Viral Meningitis. 5 day hospital stay. I'm closing in on 3 weeks since discharge and still have after effects.

My main concern is cognitive impairment. I'm just not with it mentally. I have a hard time with menial tasks (especially typos when typing) and my concentration is not good. Short term memory is weak. Difficulty with attention span when talking to someone. I've read where this is not uncommon but my biggest concern is the long term implications. Do these symptoms eventually subside? How long does it take?? Very, very frustrating!! Thanks...