Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. The disease can be life-threatening, so prompt action on early symptoms is important.

Early Symptoms

Typical early symptoms of bacterial meningitis include high fever, chills and headache. The person's neck may become so stiff that he cannot lower his chin to his chest.

Other Symptoms

Other bacterial meningitis symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, confusion, sensitivity to light, sleepiness, and a red and purple skin rash.

Children and Infants

Signs in young children also may include irritability, refusal to eat, being difficult to wake up, continuous crying and seizures. Infants may not show signs of a stiff neck.

Complications

If treatment is delayed, bacterial meningitis can result in hearing loss and brain damage. Bacterial meningitis also can be fatal.

Treatment

Depending on the severity of the symptoms, physicians may begin treatment before a definitive diagnosis. Treatment begins with intravenous antibiotics, fluid replacement and a corticosteroid to reduce swelling.

References

• Information from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control
• Further informatin on bacterial meningitis