Meningitis occurs when the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord become irritated and swollen. This can be caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. While many cases of viral meningitis can resolve on their own without treatment, bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and should be managed in a hospital immediately. Since this condition needs to be dealt with urgently, understanding spinal meningitis onset symptoms is key to saving lives.
Fever
As noted by the Merck Manuals, a high fever may be a symptom of spinal meningitis. Fevers are a result of the body trying to fight off an infection. Chills may also accompany the fever.
Headache
Another symptom of the onset of spinal meningitis is a severe headache. The headache is caused because the lining of the brain and spinal cord is inflamed. As noted by MayoClinic.com, nausea and vomiting can occur along with the severe headache.
Stiff Neck
A person who has developed spinal meningitis may have a stiff neck. For a person with a stiff neck, the ability to move the head downward or touch the chin on the chest is basically impossible, according to the Merck Manuals. Turning the head from side to side is not as difficult. Stiff neck associated with spinal meningitis is called meningismus.
Sensitivity to Light
According to the Meningitis Research Foundation, a person with meningitis may develop a sensitivity to light or photophobia. This condition can make it difficult for the sufferer to go into the bright sunlight. This symptom is not as common in young children.
Skin Rash
Persons with certain types of spinal meningitis can develop a skin rash that appears on all parts of the body including the palms and soles of the feet. This is more common in viral or meningococcal meningitis infections, as noted by MayoClinic.com.
Additional Symptoms in Infants and Toddlers
As noted by the Meningitis Research Foundation, infants and toddlers may have additional symptoms at the onset of spinal meningitis. Babies can exhibit signs of irritability and display odd, jerking movements of the limbs. Infants may also have a bulging of the fontanelle which is the soft spot of the baby's head. The child may not want to be touched or held or eat anything.
