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What are the symptoms of meningitis?

In adults, the symptoms of meningitis may include: sudden fever; severe headaches; stiff neck; an altered mental state; confusion or trouble concentrating; unintelligible speech; chills; head and neck arching backwards; joint pain and muscle pain; vomiting or nausea; sleepiness or difficulty waking up; skin rash (reddish-purple spots the size of pinpricks, or larger bruise-like spots); sensitivity to light; seizures; rapid breathing, and; lack of appetite. In infants the symptoms of meningitis might appear slightly different. They include: high fever; sleepiness; irritability, constant crying, moaning or grunting; inactivity; lack of appetite, no interest in feeding; vomiting and nausea; stiffness in the body and neck, and; a swelling in the soft spot on top of baby's head (fontanelle).

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is meningitis?

Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective layers that surround the brain and the spinal cord. It can be a serious, life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical care.

What causes meningitis?

There are several possible causes of meningitis. It can be the result of infection with bacteria, viruses or fungi. It can also result from non-infectious causes such as inflammatory diseases.

Who gets meningitis?

While anyone can get meningitis, the disease is most common among infants and young children, elderly people and people whose immune system is weak.

How is meningitis diagnosed?

In its early stages, meningitis can be difficult to diagnose, because the symptoms can be similar to those of flu. If your doctor suspects meningitis, they may do a physical examination to check for signs of infection around the head; a lumbar puncture (spinal …

How is meningitis treated?

Meningitis is treated according to its cause. Bacterial meningitis, the most dangerous of meningitis types, is a medical emergency and is treated with an immediate injection of antibiotics into the vein.

Can meningitis be cured?

If treated early, most cases of meningitis can be successfully treated.

Will meningitis clear on its own?

Viral meningitis usually clears on its own with supportive treatment. Bacterial meningitis requires close observation and expert treatment to prevent complications.

How is meningitis spread?

Bacterial and viral meningitis are spread by close, prolonged contact with infected people. The micro-organisms are spread via coughs, sneezes and saliva.

What increases the chances of developing meningitis?

Infants and other people with weak immune systems are at greatest risk of developing meningitis. People living in close quarters (dormitories, army barracks, etc.) are also at increased risk of infection, as are people who live in or …

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 18 Sep 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Votes: 234 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Rubella

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