Several cases of meningitis are recorded every year. Most infections are viral and therefore mild, bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections are more dangerous and require immediate treatment. All over the world, whether the country is industrialized or developing, bacterial meningitis is considered a real public health problem, especially in children.
An inflammatory disease affecting the meninges, the membranes surrounding the brain and the spinal cord, the complications caused by the latter can, however, be prevented by early treatment. It is therefore important to know how to detect the first symptoms in order to avoid serious repercussions.
In the United States, Abbigayle Dipietro, died of bacterial meningitis, the girl's family is in shock and urges parents to pay attention to these symptoms
8 Symptoms of meningitis
1- Fever
One of the first signs of meningitis is a sudden fever. The child then feels chills and a feeling of cold. The temperature generally rises very quickly and cannot fall, despite the usual treatments. However, fever can be a symptom of several illnesses, so it is important to consult a doctor so that he can shed more light on the origin of the disease.
2- Headache
The headaches due to meningitis are often throbbing and disabling. If your child complains of unbearable pain that spreads from the head to the neck, it is essential to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
3- Vision disturbance
People with meningitis, especially children, suffer from confusion, blurred vision and can no longer focus on seeing clearly.
4- Abdominal pain nausea and vomiting
One of the symptoms of meningitis is a loss of appetite accompanied by stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Again, this can be a sign of various health conditions, and only the advice of a doctor can tell you about your child's health.
5- Light sensitivity
In addition to blurred vision and an intense headache, if your child is very sensitive to light and it causes tearing, it may be a sign of meningitis.
6- Torticollis
If your child has one or more of the above symptoms and has stiffness in the occipital muscles, this may be a sign of meningitis. Children suffering from this disease are often in the same position: Lying on their side, their legs bent and unable to move their neck.
7- Tender legs difficulty
Meningitis causes joint pain and stiffness that prevents the child from stretching the legs. Her knees instantly bend and her neck is immobilized backwards.
8- Rash that doesn't fade
If your child has rashes, there is a home test to find out if it is meningitis. To do this, take a drink and place it against your child's skin by pressing, if the task fades, your child is probably not suffering from meningitis.
As soon as the disease is suspected, it is urgent to consult a doctor as soon as possible in order to effectively treat the infection.