Meningitis is a disease that is connected with the inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and the spinal cord. The etiology of this disease can vary, but the symptoms of different types are usually similar.
Children are more susceptible to this disease, which is why we’ve decided to remind parents about the ways of detecting meningitis and which symptoms should be paid attention to.
One of the symptoms of meningitis is a sudden fever. The child will start to shiver and keep complaining that they are always cold. The sick person’s temperature will increase quickly, and it very often becomes an uphill struggle to bring it down again. However, since this symptom is a sign of many other diseases, one should keep a look out for other tell-tale signs of meningitis.
Severe Headache
Headaches which are caused by meningitis are often unbearable. Moreover, the pain can impact a patient’s neck as well, but due to the pain caused by the headache this symptom is often overlooked.
Double Vision
Someone who is suffering from meningitis won’t be able to focus their eyesight, which is why they end up with double vision.
A person who is suffering from meningitis will not have much of an appetite. This is down to the constant nausea, stomachaches, and vomiting.
Sensitivity to Bright Light
Another sign of meningitis is a sensitivity to bright light. The bright light will cause the child’s eyes to water and can lead to a strong headache.
Rigidity of the Occipital Muscles
A child with meningitis may be found in a particular position: lying on their side with their head thrown back and their legs bent. Attempts to unbend their neck are often unsuccessful.
Inability to Unbend Legs
Even if you’re able to bend the child’s head to their chest, their legs may instantly bend at the knees, and will be impossible to unbend. This phenomenon is known as the Brudzinski neck sign.
Skin rashes are also possible with meningitis. Using the following test, it’s very easy to detect a simple rash that’s not connected to meningitis.
Take a clear glass, apply it to the rash, and press firmly against the skin until it turns pale. If the rash turns pale along with the skin, then it’s not meningitis. However, if the rash doesn’t fade, then medical attention should be sought.
What to Do
Meningitis is a deadly disease, which is why if you notice any of these symptoms you should call an ambulance right away. You should provide the sick person with rest, peace and quiet, and in a dimly lit room until the paramedics arrive.
You should inform the doctor about all the symptoms you have noticed. It’s highly discouraged to refuse hospitalization when there is suspicion of meningitis because it can only be treated properly in the inpatient department.
Source: brightside
Images: depositphotos
