Patient education: Viral meningitis in adults – Discharge instructions (The Basics)

What are discharge instructions? — 

Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care for a health problem.

What is viral meningitis? — 

This is a condition that can cause a fever, headache, and stiff neck. It happens when the lining that covers the brain and spinal cord (called the "meninges") gets infected. This sometimes happens after a person has an infection in another part of their body.

Viral meningitis is caused by a virus. It is not treated with antibiotics. This is because antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not viral infections. Most people with viral meningitis recover within 1 to 2 weeks without any long-term problems.

Your doctor might recommend other treatment, depending on the virus that caused your infection. Some viruses can be treated with "antiviral" medicines.

How do I care for myself at home? — 

Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure that you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.

You should also:

●Take all of your medicines as instructed, even if you are feeling better.

●Get plenty of rest.

●Drink lots of fluids (like water, juice, or broth) to stay hydrated.

●Take a medicine like acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) or ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), as instructed by your doctor. These can help with symptoms and bring down a fever.

●Lower the chance of passing the infection to others:

•Wash your hands often (figure 1).

•Do not share cups or utensils.

What follow-up care do I need? — 

Your doctor or nurse will tell you if you need to make a follow-up appointment. If so, make sure that you know when and where to go.

When should I call the doctor? — 

Call your doctor or nurse right away if you have:

●New or worsening headache, fever, or neck stiffness

●Nausea or vomiting

●Signs of dehydration, such as:

•Dizziness

•Confusion

•Muscle cramps

•Not needing to urinate for more than 5 hours

More on this topic

Patient education: Viral meningitis (The Basics)
Patient education: Headaches in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: Viral culture (The Basics)

Patient education: Headache causes and diagnosis in adults (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Headache treatment in adults (Beyond the Basics)