Overview
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes that border the brain and the spinal cord. Meningitis can be caused by germs or an infection. Anybody can get meningitis, whatever age they are, but children and young kids under five are most at risk.
Meningitis can be very serious. If you think it might be meningitis you must phone for medical assistance straight away, so they can be treated as quick as possible. If noticed early, and treated quickly, most individuals make a complete recovery.
What To Look For – Meningitis
If somebody has meningitis, they won’t generally show all the indications and signs at the same time. But these are the important things to look for:
- Flu-like sickness with a temperature
- Cold feet and hands
- Joint and limb pain
- Blemished or very pale skin
As the meningitis infection develops:
- Consistent headache
- Neck problems
- Nausea
- Eyes become sensitive when exposed to the light
- Sleepiness
Later you might see a distinct rash of red or purple spots that doesn’t disappear when pressed.
Steps To Take – Meningitis
- If somebody has any of the signs of meningitis, like guarding their eyes from the light, phone for emergency assistance immediately and treat the fever.
- Look to see if they have a rash. With most rashes if you compress the spots with the side of a glass, the spots will disappear – if they don’t disappear, phone for medical assistance.
- While you’re waiting for the ambulance to arrive, comfort the person and keep them cool.
- Keep inspecting their breathing, pulse and level of reaction.