Meningitis, also called meningococcal disease or spinal meningitis, is a potentially deadly illness caused by inflammation of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The Mayo Clinic indicates that this illness is often due to a viral infection, but bacteria and fungus can lead to meningitis as well. The cause of the infection is the determining factor as to whether the infection resolves on its own after several weeks or if it's a medical emergency. To have the best prognosis, people with signs of meningitis should seek medical attention right away.
Early Signs
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that meningitis is often distinguished from other infections due to the combination of early symptoms after exposure to the infection. These include a high fever accompanied by a headache and stiff neck. The Mayo Clinic warns that these symptoms may be misattributed to influenza or some other moderate illness. Some signs of serious infection may or may not be attributed to meningitis, the Mayo Clinic says. These include pain in the leg, ice-cold hands and/or feet and an unusually pale skin tone.
Progressive Symptoms
Over time, the illness may progress to more severe symptoms without medical attention. Bacterial meningitis may attack suddenly and progress rapidly. The Mayo Clinic suggests vomiting or nausea may accompany a headache. Individuals may have seizures, experience confusion, struggle to concentrate or feel tired and struggle to wake. Other progressive symptoms that may be more easily recognized as associated with meningitis include sensitivity to light, reduced appetite or interest in drinking, or a rash.
Infants or Children: Difficulty with Eye Contact
Children are likely to exhibit the same signs as adults except they may struggle to maintain focus or eye contact in place of reporting confusion or trouble concentrating. Infants may be inconsolable, irritable, develop poor feeding habits, excessively sleepy or appear stiff in the body or neck. One distinct sign is a bulging fontanel, or soft spot on the top of baby's head.
