Symptoms of Bacterial Meningitis
How do you know when you have bacterial meningitis? Symptoms of bacterial meningitis typically come on suddenly, often within 24 hours of exposure. Symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Fever [1]
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inability to lower your chin to your chest due to a stiff neck
- Flu-like symptoms
- Confusion
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Certain symptoms are not particular I older children and adults such as irritability and increasing drowsiness. They may also experience seizures and strokes.
In babies and young children, fever may cause vomiting and they may refuse to eat. Other symptoms may include:
- Low energy or slower responses
- Sleepiness or trouble waking up
- Seizure [2]
- Bulging fontanelle
- Irritability
If you notice any of these symptoms in you or your child, go to your nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately. Bacterial meningitis can worsen quickly, leading to coma and even death within hours.