V
% Meningitis Symptoms and Complications Everyday Health MenuNewslettersSearch Meningitis
visibility
218 views
thumb_up
15 likes
E
But other types of infections, including those from a wide variety of bacteria, fungi, and parasites, can also cause the disease. There are also many noninfectious causes of meningitis, including head injury, brain surgery, and certain cancers.
thumb_up
26 likes
I
Despite the range of causes, the symptoms of meningitis are generally the same, whether it’s viral, bacterial, or fungal.
What Are the Symptoms of Viral Meningitis
Sudden onset of fever, severe headache, and stiff neck are typically the initial signs of viral meningitis in both children and adults.
thumb_up
0 likes
K
If you have a high fever, headaches, and can’t lower your chin to your chest without intense pain, seek medical attention right away. Other common symptoms include: Nausea and vomitingPhotophobia, or sensitivity to bright lightsAltered mental states, such as confusion and difficulty concentrating
Along with these symptoms, people with viral meningitis may also experience:Lethargy (lack of energy) or profound fatigueDecreased appetiteSleeping problems, such as sleepiness and difficulty fully rousing from sleep
With viral meningitis, the symptoms are often less severe than with bacterial meningitis and develop at a slower pace.
thumb_up
32 likes
D
Most cases go away on their own within 7 to 10 days, however, a complete medical assessment is still necessary.
What Are Complications of Viral Meningitis
If complications accompany or follow viral meningitis, they are not as severe as with bacterial meningitis. According to a 2015 survey of more than 450 meningitis patients, those who had experienced viral meningitis reported these difficulties in the wake of recovery:Symptoms and Complications of Viral Bacterial and Other Types of Meningitis
The two most common forms of bacterial meningitis are meningococcal meningitis (caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis) and pneumococcal meningitis (caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae).
thumb_up
29 likes
E
The symptoms of bacterial meningitis, which are the same as those of viral meningitis, typically develop rapidly over the course of three to seven days. As with viral meningitis, if you have a high fever, headaches, and can’t lower your chin to your chest, call a doctor right away. Children with bacterial meningitis may experience: FeverVomiting Respiratory difficulties Seizures or shock Infants may exhibit these symptoms:
LethargyA bulging fontanelle (a swollen soft spot on the head) Irritability when heldDifficulty focusing the gazeDifficulty being fed (1)
LethargyA bulging fontanelle (a swollen soft spot on the head) Irritability when heldDifficulty focusing the gazeDifficulty being fed (1)
What Are Complications of Bacterial Meningitis
Most of the time, if bacterial meningitis is treated right away, people can return quickly to good health.
thumb_up
47 likes
E
Still, some cases can be fatal, and there may sometimes be long-term effects, such as:TirednessCognitive difficultiesHearing difficulties, including permanent hearing lossCoordination problemsBehavioral problems (in children)Speech problemsHeadaches
The later stages of bacterial meningitis can cause severe and life-threatening complications, including:Septicemia (blood poisoning)SeizuresComaStrokeHemorrhage of the adrenal glands, which are glands on top of the kidneys that produce important, regulating hormones (2)Related Conditions
What s Causing Your Skin Rash
Septicemia due to meningococcal meningitis causes a rash that begins as tiny red spots that, if untreated, turn into larger purplish bruise-like spots. This is due to the blood leaking from damaged blood vessels underneath the skin.
thumb_up
49 likes
B
There’s a test to see whether this rash may be due to septicemia from meningococcal meningitis: If you press a glass on the rash, and the pressure doesn’t make the bumps fade, it means the rash may be caused by meningococcal meningitis. In darker skin, check for the rash inside the eyelids, on the palms of hands, and on the bottoms of feet. Cold feet and hands are other signs of septicemia.
thumb_up
49 likes
N
What Are the Symptoms of Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis
An infection from the microscopic amoeba (a single-celled organism) Naegleria fowleri can cause a very rare form of parasitic meningitis called primary amebic meningoencephalitis, or PAM, in which the brain is also inflamed. The initial symptoms of PAM — headache, fever, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting — begin within the first seven days of becoming infected with the parasite.
thumb_up
11 likes
L
As the infection progresses, it can cause:ConfusionLack of attention to people and surroundingsLoss of balanceSeizuresHallucinations
Without treatment, PAM usually results in death about five days after symptoms start. (3)
What Are Neonatal Meningitis Symptoms
Bacterial meningitis in newborns is called neonatal bacterial meningitis.
thumb_up
21 likes
K
The condition is very rare and occurs most often in babies with low birth weight. It’s been estimated that neonatal bacterial meningitis affects 2 in every 10,000 babies born full-term, and in 2 out of 1,000 low birth weight infants.
thumb_up
14 likes
N
(4)
The incidence of this disease has decreased over the last few decades, possibly due to increased maternal screenings for the bacteria that is primarily responsible for this disease. (5) That bacteria is Group B streptococcus (GBS). According to research, the following are among the risk factors for neonatal meningitis: (5)
Premature birthGBS infection in the motherFever in the motherLow birth weightFetal monitoring or other invasive procedures, like shunts or catheters Signs and symptoms of meningitis in newborns include:FeverDazed effectDifficulties focusing a gazeIrritability, especially when heldConstant cryingFrequent vomitingDifficulty being fedBulging fontanelle (swollen soft spot on the head)Constant sleepiness or trouble waking Neonatal meningitis caused by GBS may develop in an infant’s first week of life, but most often occurs in an infant’s first three months.
The incidence of this disease has decreased over the last few decades, possibly due to increased maternal screenings for the bacteria that is primarily responsible for this disease. (5) That bacteria is Group B streptococcus (GBS). According to research, the following are among the risk factors for neonatal meningitis: (5)
Premature birthGBS infection in the motherFever in the motherLow birth weightFetal monitoring or other invasive procedures, like shunts or catheters Signs and symptoms of meningitis in newborns include:FeverDazed effectDifficulties focusing a gazeIrritability, especially when heldConstant cryingFrequent vomitingDifficulty being fedBulging fontanelle (swollen soft spot on the head)Constant sleepiness or trouble waking Neonatal meningitis caused by GBS may develop in an infant’s first week of life, but most often occurs in an infant’s first three months.
thumb_up
20 likes
E
(4)
How Is Meningitis Diagnosed
The following tests are used to diagnose meningitis:Lumbar punctures (also known as spinal taps)Blood testsImaging studies Lumbar punctures allow doctors to collect a sample of the fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord to test for infection. The fluid is then examined to see if there are increased numbers of white blood cells and protein and decreased numbers of glucose.
thumb_up
27 likes
L
The spinal fluid can also be examined to identify infectious organisms and to see what type of medication would be most effective against that organism. Lumbar punctures and subsequent tests can also determine what kind of infection — bacterial, viral, fungal — is present. Standard blood tests can reveal if you have antibodies or foreign proteins that are indicative of an infection.
thumb_up
40 likes
E
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) scans can reveal if you have inflammation, particularly of the meninges. These imaging tests can also show if you have other complications, such as brain damage and internal bleeding, and if you have any issues that may make a lumbar puncture unsafe to perform, including abscesses and brain inflammation.
thumb_up
4 likes
J
Additional reporting by Carlene Bauer.
Resources We Love
Meningitis NowMeningitis Research FoundationU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesNEWSLETTERSSign up for our Healthy Living Newsletter
SubscribeBy subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
thumb_up
5 likes
J
Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking
Viral Meningitis Week: After Effects. Meningitis Now.
thumb_up
21 likes
E
May 7, 2015.After Effects. Meningitis Research Foundation.Naegleria Fowleri: Illness and Symptoms. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
thumb_up
27 likes
D
July 10, 2022.Neonatal Bacterial Meningitis. Merck Manual.
thumb_up
15 likes
O
July 2022.Ku L, Boggess K, Cohen-Wolkowiez M. Bacterial Meningitis in the Infant. Clinics in Perinatology.
thumb_up
19 likes
S
March 2015.
Additional Sources
Adrenal Gland. Cleveland Clinic.
thumb_up
25 likes
M
May 13, 2022.Bacterial Meningitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
thumb_up
39 likes
J
July 15, 2021.Complications of Meningitis. NHS. March 8, 2022.Group B Strep and Pregnancy.
thumb_up
12 likes
V
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. July 2021.Khalessi N, Afsharkhas L.
thumb_up
13 likes
J
Neonatal Meningitis. Iranian Journal of Child Neurology.
thumb_up
48 likes
A
Autumn 2014.Mount HR, Boyle SD. Aseptic and Bacterial Meningitis: Evaluation, Treatment, and Prevention. American Family Physician.
thumb_up
42 likes
E
September 2017.Schrag SJ, Serani JR. Intrapartum Antibiotic Prophylaxis for the Prevention of Perinatal Group B Streptococcal Disease. Vaccine.
thumb_up
42 likes
E
August 2013.Septicemia. Johns Hopkins Medicine.Vaccine Knowledge Project: Group B Streptococcus.
thumb_up
24 likes
J
University of Oxford. January 28, 2022.Meningitis: Diagnosis and Treatment.
thumb_up
32 likes
L
Mayo Clinic. October 1, 2020.Dispel Viral Meningitis Myths. Meningitis Now.
thumb_up
33 likes
E
April 27, 2016.Meningococcal Meningitis and Sepsis: Guidance Notes [PDF]. Meningitis Research Foundation.
thumb_up
34 likes
D
2018.Meningococcal Meningitis. MedlinePlus. October 25, 2020.Frequently Asked Meningitis Questions.
thumb_up
26 likes
E
Meningitis Now.Non-Infectious Meningitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
thumb_up
20 likes
D
July 15, 2021.Parasitic Meningitis. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April 6, 2019.Viral Meningitis.
thumb_up
26 likes
H
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. May 25, 2021.Show Less
The Latest in Meningitis
Viral Meningitis Causes Treatment and Prevention
Viral meningitis is the most common form of meningitis. It’s typically mild and resolves without treatment.By Joseph Bennington-CastroSeptember 8, 2022Meningitis Treatment and Prevention
Treatment for meningitis is dependent on whether the disease is viral, bacterial, fungal, or noninfectious.By Joseph Bennington-CastroSeptember 7, 2022CDC Urges Meningococcal Vaccine for Gay and Bisexual Men After Florida Outbreak
Vaccinations for meningococcal disease — which is spread by kissing and close contact — are recommended for men who live in Florida or plan to travel ...By Lisa RapaportApril 13, 2022What Is Meningitis Symptoms Diagnosis Treatment and Prevention
By Joseph Bennington-CastroOctober 14, 2020Fungal Meningitis Types Symptoms and Treatment
By Joseph Bennington-CastroApril 4, 2018Bacterial Meningitis Types Symptoms Causes and Treatment
Bacterial meningitis can be debilitating, but there are vaccines and treatments available to lower your risk of severe illness.By Joseph Bennington-CastroApril 3, 2018Understanding the 5 Types of Meningitis
Meningitis is an umbrella term for five types of the disease, each characterized by its underlying cause.
thumb_up
27 likes
W
Find out what distinguishes these types of meningitis...By Mikel TheobaldJuly 18, 2014
6 Ways to Prevent Meningitis
Meningitis is a serious disease that can spread quickly from person to person. Find out how to protect yourself from the bacteria and viruses that can...By Beth W.
thumb_up
7 likes
M
OrensteinJuly 18, 2014
How Meningitis Is Diagnosed in Its Early Stages
Symptoms of meningitis are often mistaken for the flu. But detecting and diagnosing the disease early can be lifesaving.
thumb_up
14 likes
A
Here's what you should know.By Mikel TheobaldJuly 18, 2014
The Warning Signs of Meningitis
Meningitis can come on quickly and be life-threatening, but its symptoms often get confused with those of the flu. Here's what you should watch out for...By Kristen StewartJuly 18, 2014 MORE INWhat Is a Ruptured Appendix Causes Treatment and Complications
Malaria Symptoms Complications and Diagnosis
Symptoms of Pancreatitis Pain and Other Complications
thumb_up
36 likes
Similar Discussions
-
FIFA 23 Ultimate Team Marcus Rashford POTM SBC How to complete potential costs and more
-
Sao Paulo vs Independiente Valle Prediction and Betting Tips October 1 2022
-
4 Current WWE Women who recently became mothers
-
GUY vs TKR Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Today s Playing 11 Player Stats Pitch Report for CPL 2022 Match 28
-
Logitech G G502 X PLUS review Futuristic upgrade to a favorite design
-
Floyd Mayweather says Conor McGregor doesn t hit hard
-
We re determined to build a powerhouse Acend CEO disappointed over exclusion from Valorant EMEA partnership program
-
Riot doesn t care about results Valorant community in shock as FPX fails to secure VCT EMEA partnership
-
Who is Ashley Russell? 21 year old Alabama college student claims Adam Levine shared flirty texts with her reveals leaked Instagram DMs
-
Nvidia introduces DLSS 3 performance improvements
-
League of Legends World Championship 2022 Where to watch the international event in different languages
-
Roberto s legacy This line up today was pretty damn amazing to see MLB fans applaud Tampa Bay Rays for naming league s first ever All Latino lineup on 21st annual Roberto Clemente Day
-
Aggressive behavior and being physically abusive towards her in the past Marcell Ozuna was arrested after his wife Genesis Guzman went to the cops for a domestic dispute incident in 2021
-
Special day The announcers were cutest yet San Francisco Giants Brandon Crawford and wife Jalynne Crawford s kids made the most adorable announcement during the Giants vs Braves game
-
MJF and 4 other AEW stars who have drawn interest from WWE
-
Bianca Belair comments on WWE Women s Tag Team Titles
-
Which Premier League superstar has the highest overall rating in FIFA 23? Manchester City star grabs the spotlight following brilliant season
-
Watch Sanju Samson poses with fans gives autographs after training
-
XSET vs FNATIC at VCT Champions 2022 Istanbul Predictions head to head livestream details and more
-
NASCAR evolving across the board more than I ve ever seen says Ross Chastain ahead of Kansas race this weekend
-
RUB vs SAP Dream11 Prediction Fantasy Cricket Tips Today s Playing 11 Player Stats Pitch Report for KCA Women s T20 Challengers 2022 Match 1
-
I broke up with her over the phone Bachelorette alum Nayte Olukoya dishes on why he and Michelle Young split after her birthday
-
Genshin Impact leaker shares character design of Kaveh an upcoming Dendro unit
-
What time will Press Your Luck Season 4 Episode 9 air on ABC? Release date contestants and more
-
Green Tea How Much Should You Drink Per Day?
-
Asia Cup 2022 3 mistakes Team India must avoid against Sri Lanka
-
Coco Gauff is putting us very low but otherwise I m very happy for me and Victoria Azarenka still working hard and playing tennis at this age Petra Kvitova on duking it out with youngsters at the US Open
-
Lando Norris abrupt breakup story leaves fans in confusion
-
Manchester United Confirmed signings and departures in the summer transfer window 2022
-
WATCH NYC resident Vesly Beato recalls getting randomly attacked in subway in viral video