Meningitis: what changes in health should alert and how to quickly check one of the symptoms

Meningitis is an inflammation of the soft membranes of the brain and spinal cord caused by various pathogens. About what symptoms should alert, told the Russian infectious disease doctor, therapist Ekaterina Stepanova, writes sb.by.

According to the specialist, one of the first alarming signs is a sharp deterioration in health. A person suddenly has a fever, there is a pronounced weakness and a feeling that strength is not enough even for usual actions. Especially should be alerted by the rapid development of symptoms.

“With meningitis, a person tries to avoid bright lights and loud sounds, he has nausea and vomiting,” says Ekaterina Stepanova. But vomiting at this diagnosis usually does not bring relief, unlike food poisoning.

Another important sign is the rigidity of the occipital muscles. When trying to tilt the head, the chin cannot be brought closer to the chest. Skin sensitivity may also increase: touch becomes unpleasant or painful.

“If these signs appear, an ambulance should be called urgently. If meningitis is suspected, the patient is hospitalized. You should not try to treat the disease on your own or wait until the symptoms pass, the specialist notes.

To choose therapy, doctors need to establish the causative agent of the infection, added Ekaterina Stepanova. Further treatment depends on this, which may include antibacterial or other drugs.

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