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Meningitis occurs when a viral or bacterial infection spreads to or starts in the coverings around the brain or the spinal cord, resulting in severe inflammation. In most cases, young children and young adults are the most at risk; however, anyone with a compromised immune system can develop meningitis.
Viral meningitis is the most common form of this illness, and it is generally not life threatening unless complications develop. Bacterial meningitis, however, is incredibly serious and can lead to brain damage or death if not treated immediately. The symptoms for both types of meningitis are the same, although viral meningitis may come on more slowly than bacterial.
Common Symptoms of MeningitisIn many cases, the symptoms of meningitis mimic those of a severe flu. Muscle aches, weakness and tingling throughout the body are exceedingly common, and oftentimes the symptoms of meningitis are mistaken for the flu at first. In addition to this, patients almost always have a fever, and may experience prolonged and debilitating headaches. The combination of headaches and a fever can lead to vomiting.
A person may become confused and have difficulty staying awake, and in severe cases, seizures may occur. Perhaps the most notable sign of meningitis, however, is the inability to move the neck downwards due to pain and stiffness in the neck: this is caused by inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Some patients may also develop a rash on the skin, or experience sensitivity to light. Dizzy spells occurring when a person moves from a sitting to standing position may also occur.
Symptoms of Meningitis in BabiesMeningitis can be slightly difficult to note in babies, as they cannot convey how they are feeling. However, the most common signs to watch for in young children are unusual irritability, especially when being held, and a decrease in appetite and vomiting. A baby with meningitis will often emit a high-pitched cry, and will likely develop a rash somewhere on his or her body. When a child is young enough to have an open "soft spot" on his or her head, this area may bulge out, and the baby's entire body may become stiff.
What else can I help you with?
Meningitis Signs and Symptoms?
Meningitis symptoms can often be confused with the common flu but tend to develop more rapidly and severely. High fever, confusion, fatigue, loss of appetite and thirst, skin rash, seizures, headache and stiffness in the neck are common symptoms of meningitis. See a doctor if you experience these symptoms suddenly.
How long until you get the symptoms of meningitis?
About 2 days. :)
What would a soar throat stiff neck and rash be?
If you or someone you know are sick you should see a doctor. With that said, they are all symptoms of meningitis.
What symptoms come with the sickness viral meningitis?
People with viral meningitis often have flu-like symptoms; headaches, fever, etc. Depending on the severity of the meningitis, they can also have muscle stiffness, muscle or joint pain, nausea, diarrhea, and some sensitivity to light.
What is the Role of dexamethasone in pyogenic meningitis in children?
Dexamethasone is used in treatment of pyogenic meningitis in adults. Dexamethasone is not indicated for children with pyogenic meningitis if the symptoms are advanced.
What are the key differences between bacterial and viral meningitis, and how can they be distinguished in terms of symptoms and treatment?
Bacterial meningitis is caused by bacteria, while viral meningitis is caused by viruses. Bacterial meningitis is typically more severe and can be life-threatening, while viral meningitis is usually less severe and resolves on its own. Symptoms of bacterial meningitis include high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, and confusion, while viral meningitis symptoms are similar but milder. Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics, while viral meningitis does not respond to antibiotics and is managed with supportive care. A lumbar puncture can help distinguish between the two types of meningitis by analyzing the cerebrospinal fluid.
What are the symptoms of listerial meningitis?
Symptoms of listerial meningitis occur about four days after the flu-like symptoms and include fever, personality change, uncoordinated muscle movement, tremors, muscle contractions, seizures, and slipping in and out of consciousness.
Why is it difficult to detect meningitis in the elderly?
Similarly, debilitated elderly patients may not have fever or other identifiable symptoms of meningitis.
Is fever a symptom of meningitis?
Fever is indeed a sypmptom of meningitis. Symptoms of meningitis are very similar to the flu. They include fever, headache, vomiting, stiffness, and sleepiness. A doctor should always be consulted regarding meningitis.
What are the symptoms of viral meningitis and how can they be identified?
Symptoms of viral meningitis include headache, fever, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and nausea. These symptoms can be identified through a physical exam, blood tests, and a spinal tap to analyze cerebrospinal fluid.
What are symptoms of meningitis?
Fever Vomiting Intense headache Stiff neck
Was Meningitis discovered in Switzerland?
Scientists described the symptoms in Geneva, Switzerland.
