Warning Signs and Symptoms of Meningitis

M eningitis is an infection that is rare. Meningitis affects the meninges, a membrane that covers the brain and spinal cord. This condition is contagious as it is deadly. Meningitis goes with different names, depending on its cause agent. Fungal meningitis is as a result of fungal infections and occurs in individuals with weak immune system. Bacterial meningitis is contagious and deadly and viral meningitis is not severe, and one can recover. There are early and late symptoms of meningitis. Signs and symptoms of meningitis:

• Sensitivity to bright light especially when one is from dim light place
• A persistent headache that is severe and is confused with other types of headache
• Nausea and vomiting that is characterized by headache
• Anorexia – One experiences lack of appetite and it becomes difficult to eat and drink
• Stiff neck and pain that make it difficult to touch chin to chest
• Sluggishness and drowsiness
• Disorientation and confusion where there is mental status alteration
• Sleepiness and difficulty in waking up
• Seizure and coma
• Sudden elevated fever
• There is skin rash such as in meningococcal meningitis
• In later stages of meningitis, the following signs and symptoms are experienced
• Kidney failure
• Shock
• Learning disabilities
• Brain damage
• Death

  These are few of later symptoms of meningitis as there are others. Early treatment needs to be administered to prevent further complications and death. To ensure that risk factors of meningitis are reduced ensure there is hygiene practices are maintained at home, and simple practices are carried throughout. Take plenty of fluids and wash hands before eating and after visiting the toilet. Ensure you vaccinate your kid against Haemophilus influenza, pneumococcal conjugate, and meningococcal conjugate. [Photo: pervallmedical.com]