When the meninges, or membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, become inflamed the result is meningitis. Bacteria, viruses or other medications and illnesses can cause this condition. KidsHealth.org, a website provided by The Nemours Foundation, suggests bacterial meningitis to be a rare, but serious condition. Viral meningitis is more common and is considerably less serious. Detecting meningitis in a baby can be difficult, as the signs resemble other illnesses.
Irritability, Lethargy and/or Fever
It is not uncommon for an infant with meningitis to have no signs or symptoms. KidsHealth.org suggests the baby may be extremely irritable, lethargic and/or have a fever. The infant may be inconsolable even when rocked, held or soothed in a number of ways. The irritation in the brain is worsened by movement, which is why an infant cries more when rocked or moved. These signs can accompany nearly any illness, making it difficult to attribute the illness to meningitis without medical examination.
Flu-Like Symptoms
Viral meningitis can appear much like a mild to moderate bout of the flu. It can consist of symptoms like a fever and runny nose. Merck Manuals points out that vomiting is common. This form of meningitis often goes undiagnosed. Symptoms resolve within seven to 10 days without the need for medical intervention. Prolonged flu-like symptoms may be a sign of bacterial meningitis.
Skin Symptoms
Jaundice can develop with meningitis. Signs of this include yellowing of the skin, beginning on the face and moving down the chest and out towards the ends of the limbs. The whites of the eyes can also become yellow. It is possible for the hands and feet to become cold or for the skin to become pale and blue, states BabyCenter.com. A red rash can develop anywhere on the body.
Body Changes
An infant's body may become stiff with meningitis. The neck can also develop this stiffness. The fontanelles (soft spots) on the top and front of the baby's skull can bulge due to the swelling in the brain area. Merck suggests the pressure on the brain has increased from the inflammation of the meninges and this leads to the bulging fontanelles. This is a serious sign and should be examined by a doctor immediately.
Other Symptoms
A baby may struggle to suck from a lack of muscle control and fatigue. This can lead to trouble feeding. She may also have a high-pitched cry or other cry that is different than usual. In addition to a possible fever, meningitis can cause an abnormally low body temperature. BabyCenter.com suggests light sensitivity to be a classic symptom of meningitis. In some cases a baby may struggle to breathe or have seizures. These are all signs of a serious health concern and should be treated by a medical professional.
