Do I Have Meningitis?

Do you have a sudden high fever (38C and higher)?

Do you have cold hands and feet?

Do you have a stiff neck so that you can’t lower your chin to your chest?

Do you have severe headache that seems different than normal?

Do you have headache accompanied by nausea or vomiting?

Do you have confusion or difficulty concentrating?

Do you have muscle and joint pain?

Do you have sleepiness or difficulty waking?

Do you have increased sensitivity to light?

Do you have no appetite or thirst?

Do you have spots on your skin or a skin rash that may fade on pressure?

Do you have seizures?

Have you been exposed to anyone with meningitis?

Does anyone in your household have similar symptoms?

Have you completed your recommended vaccination schedule?

Do you take any immunosuppressant medications?

Do you have other health problems, including allergies to any medications?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have meningitis. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges, which are the membranes that surround and protect your brain and spinal cord. Meningitis is most often caused by a viral or bacterial infection, but injuries, certain medication, or other types of infection can also be the cause of meningitis. Anyone can get it, but it is more common in children younger than age 5, teenagers and young adults between 16 and 25 years of age, and adults over 55. Also, people who have not completed a regular childhood or adult vaccination schedule are at higher risk of getting meningitis.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have meningitis. Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that cover and protect your brain and spinal cord (meninges). Swelling of these membranes causes various symptoms, and in early stages of meningitis they can mimic the flu. The most common cause of meningitis in the US is viral infections. In some cases, viral meningitis can improve without treatment within a few weeks. But, there are other types of meningitis, such as bacterial meningitis, that can cause serious complications if left untreated. Diagnosis is based on your medical history, physical examination, blood tests, medical imaging and spinal tap.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have meningitis. Meningitis represents inflammation and swelling of the protective membranes that surround your brain and spinal cord. It is extremely important to determine the cause of meningitis in a timely manner, because the course of treatment depends on the type of meningitis. Acute bacterial meningitis is treated with intravenous antibiotics to speed up recovery and reduce the risk of brain swelling and seizures. On the other hand, viral meningitis is often treated with bed rest, increased fluid intake and over-the-counter medications. Treatment of noninfectious and chronic meningitis involves treating the underlying cause.