Children of any age can acquire meningitis, a condition in which infection affects the brain and spinal chord, according to KidsHealth, a publication sponsored by the Nemours Foundation. Meningitis can be either viral or bacterial. The most common type of meningitis is viral, which is typically cured by the body fighting it off naturally. Some cases of viral meningitis go undiagnosed because the symptoms appear to be a cold. Bacterial meningitis is a serious condition that can cause significant damage and could lead to death if not treated properly, according to Children's Hospital Boston.
Cause
Most of the symptoms of meningitis in children are the result of the inflammation of the brain such as headaches, fussiness, confusion and neck pain, according to Dr.Paul.com. The infection causes the surrounding areas of the head and neck to swell, placing pressure on throughout the head. An onset of viral meningitis is sudden, showing significant signs within hours.
Symptoms in Young Children
Symptoms in younger children, below the age of 1, may be difficult to recognize because of the infant's inability to orally communicate, according to the Children's Hospital Boston. The most common symptoms in children under 1 year of age include fever, sleepiness, irritability, lack of appetite, constant crying, seizures, high-pitched crying, a bulging soft spot on the head and a temperament change. A child with these symptoms should be observed by a medical professional immediately.
Symptoms in Older Children
Children over 1 year will exhibit more recognizable symptoms such as head pain, confusion, fever, lack of normal consciousness, vomiting due to nausea, a stiff or painful neck, will not eat, skin rashes, difficulty waking up and keeping up and sensitivity to light, according to KidsHealth. If a child is unable to keep liquids in her system because of excessive vomiting, she will need immediate medical attention because it can lead to dehydration.
Treatments
Viral meningitis in children is treated with rest, extra fluids and over-the-counter medications recommended by the pediatrician to alleviate the symptoms. Most cases of viral meningitis do not require hospitalization. Bacterial meningitis is a sever condition that, once confirmed, will require hospitalization, intravenous antibiotic treatment and close observation.
Consideration
Many symptoms of meningitis in children appear to be a cold or the flu at first, but will continually worsen, according to the Children's Hospital Boston. At the first signs of a cold such as a runny nose, fever or vomiting, the child needs to be evaluated by his pediatrician. Keep the pediatrician informed of any change in behavior or symptoms. Early detection is essential for preventing further complications.
