Meningitis is an inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, the result of either a bacterial or a viral infection that enters the body via the cerebral spinal fluid. Often called neonatal meningitis, infant fontanel meningitis affects babies from birth to 3 months old. Both the viral and bacterial versions of this type of meningitis are serious, and treatment delay can be life threatening or result in mental and/or hearing impairment.
Bulging Fontanel
Doctors call the soft spot at the top or front of a baby's skull the fontanel. In healthy babies, this spot is soft to the touch. If an infant's fontanel is bulging or firm to the touch, this may be a symptom of meningitis.
Eating Problems
Infants with meningitis often have eating problems, according to KidsHealth,org. Parents may find their baby does not want to eat, does not eat for very long, or has a weak sucking reflex.
Fever
Children with meningitis often run fevers and may be extremely lethargic, according to the Children Hospital Boston website. Though some children run low-grade fevers over the course of a few days, others develop sudden high fevers. It's possible for an infant to have other symptoms of meningitis and never run a fever.
Crying
Many parents notice that their child is irritable or inconsolable even when being held. Others note that their child's temperament has vastly changed, according to KidsHealth.org. Children's Hospital Boston says a classic sign of infant meningitis is a high-pitched cry, along with an arching back.
Breathing Struggles
As meningitis rapidly spreads, parents may notice that their baby is struggling while breathing. His nostrils may flare when inhaling, his lips may turn blue, and he may even experience a seizure. Children with these symptoms require immediate medical attention.
