Signs and symptoms of meningitis

Knowing the signs and symptoms of meningitis can be life saving as it would help in identifying the illness early so that the proper treatment can be given.

These symptoms of meningitis may not all occur at the same time or in the same person. But it's still important to know them so that when they occur, they will not be mistaken.

Some people develop symptoms within 24hrs. But in most people, symptoms occur over 1 - 7 days. Recent use of antibiotics may make the symptoms of meningitis less intense and not easily identifiable.

If the cause of meningitis is a fungal infection, symptoms may occur over a few weeks.

The symptoms and signs of meningitis include:

1. Headache
2. High fever with chills
3. Vomiting
4. Confusion
5. Seizures
6. Nuchal rigidity (Stiff neck)
7. Recent upper respiratory tract infection
8. Sleepiness
9. Difficulty waking up
10. Confusion
11. Skin rash especially in viral and meningococcal meningitis
12. Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
13. Joint swelling and pain (not common)

In babies and younger children, the symptoms mentioned above may not be present at all. Instead the child may be irritable and refuse to eat.

Created - March 2007
Last updated - August, 2009