How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis

Meningitis is a scary disease because it seems almost like a severe bout of influenza. By the time you figure out what bug you actually have, the case can be so critical it can cause permanent damage and, in rare cases, even death.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Thermometer
• Acetaminophen or aspirin

1. Meningitis is the inflammation of the tissue that protects and covers the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation is usually caused by bacteria or a virus. In either case, the patient will probably experience a fever. Depending on the person and the strength of his immune system, the fever could be quite high. Aspirin or acetaminophen may be used to reduce the fever. If you get a fever that is out of the ordinary for you, it would be wise to consult a physician immediately. If the fever reaches 100 degrees or higher in less than a couple of hours, go to the emergency room immediately. You can try to cool the fever by sitting in a bathtub of warm to slightly cool water. Be careful with the water temperature; you don't want to shock your system.

2. People who are diagnosed with meningitis often report having had migraine-like headaches shortly before the onset of the fever. Acetaminophen can be used to relieve some of the headache pain. If you rarely get headaches, this may be a sign that this is not a normal bout of the flu. Take the necessary precautions to ensure that you can get to the hospital if you feel you need to go.

3. A stiff or sore neck usually accompanies the onset of the fever in meningitis patients. It hurts to move the head from right to left. Any stress or pressure on the neck is painful, and it can sometimes be painful to the touch. A warm compress may relieve some of the pain, but if this sign presents itself, err on the side of caution and go to the emergency room or your doctor's office immediately.

4. Certain types of meningitis are highly contagious. They can be treated with antibiotics, but can spread through a group of friends or a family quickly if precautions aren't taken. If a family member or friend is ill, wash your hands often. Use hand sanitizer if you have it. Disinfect countertops and kitchen utensils after each use. Don't share a glass with anyone you think may have a cold or the flu.

5. Only a doctor can diagnose meningitis. This is usually done with specific tests, such as lumbar punctures, C/T scans and blood tests. If you have any question whether you have meningitis, contact your physician or emergency room immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Viral meningitis is fairly common and is usually less contagious. It can cause serious brain damage and seizures if left untreated.
• Bacterial meningitis is much less common, but much more dangerous. It will spread more quickly than viral forms of the disease and can cause death quickly if left untreated.
• If a child or relative gets sick, monitor him carefully.
• Check the person's temperature every 30 minutes to an hour.
• Try to get the person to drink water. Not only will it help with hydration, it will have a cooling effect.
• Go to the emergency room immediately if the person begins to have seizures.
• Contact your physician immediately if you feel this is something you can't handle.

Resources

• WebMD
• SpinalMeningitis.org

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