Meningitis results from incursion of bacteria or virus into the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, which are collectively known as the meninges. It is a severe inflammation of the meninges or inner lining of the brain and spinal cord. The infection usually spreads from the base of the brain up over the surface and down the spinal cord. It appears to reach the inside from the throat and nose via the blood stream. It is one of the most serious of all the acute diseases. Epidemic meningitis sometimes occurs in densely populated areas during the cold season. It is also known as spotted fever, as spots appear upon the face and body.

Meningitis can be caused for several reasons. Meningitis usually follows an attack of otitis media (middle ear disease), or mastoiditis (infection of bone projecting behind the ear), or brain abscesses or even tonsillitis. Any skull fracture or penetrating head wound may also result in meningitis. Some times tuberculosis may also spread to the brain and cause the disease. In case of epidemic meningitis, persons who have a mild sore throat or cold apparently spread the germs. Meningitis can be diagnosed by blood tests and imaging as well as lumbar puncture.

Symptoms of Meningitis start with an infection in most persons which develop from throat, nose, ear or lungs. But if they are subject to damp, cold and overcrowding, the organism is liable to pass into the blood stream. The incubation period is short, ranging between one and five days, and the onset is sudden. Persons with this disease usually have a high fever and stiffness in the neck and back. The patient tends to lie in a curled position with the knees drawn up towards the chin and the eyes turned away from light. He becomes drowsy, confused and may become unconscious. There may also be a skin rash and an obstinate constipation. Vomiting is common in epidemic meningitis.

Besides, conservative method, meningitis can be treated through alternative methods. Nature cure includes particular diet designed as a therapy. Diet plays an important role in treating meningitis. For drinks, unsweetened lemon water or plain water, either hot or cold, may be given. Thereafter, he may be gradually allowed to embark upon a well-balanced diet consisting of seeds, nuts, grains, vegetables and fruits. The emphasis should be on whole grain cereals, fresh fruits and raw or lightly cooked vegetables. Normal diet should be resorted to only after complete recovery. Water treatments have also proved to be beneficial as a remedy for meningitis. Cold compresses may be applied to the head in case the temperature rise above 103F. If this method does not succeed, cold pack may be applied to the whole body. The procedure is to wring out a sheet or other large square piece of linen material in cold water, wrap it twice right round the body and legs of the patient and then cover completely with a small blanket or similar warm material. This pack should be applied every three hours during the day while temperature is high and kept on for an hour or so each time. Hot water bottles may be applied to the feet and also against the sides of the body. Other alternative treatment includes home remedies such as warm water enema which is administered for a daily use that cleanse the bowels during the period when patients suffer from meningitis.