14600 Meningitis

Overview

Meningitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges. It is usually caused by an infection, and it needs urgent medical care.

Meningitis is uncommon. Viral meningitis is more frequent but milder. Bacterial meningitis is rare but very serious.

Meningitis can affect anyone of any age. Infants under 1 year, teenagers and young adults, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems have higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden high fever
• Severe headache that feels unlike any normal headache
• Stiff neck that makes it hard to touch your chin to your chest
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light
• Confusion or difficulty waking up
• Seizures

Symptoms in children

• High-pitched crying
• Bulging soft spot on the top of the head (fontanelle)
• Being very sleepy, difficult to wake, or floppy
• Poor feeding or vomiting
• Irritability not soothed by cuddling
• Stiff body or jerking movements

Symptoms in older adults

• Confusion or change in mental state
• Severe headache and fever
• Stiff neck may be less obvious
• Sleepiness and low energy
• Loss of appetite
• Falls or weakness

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections — the most common cause, usually milder
• Bacterial infections — less common but more dangerous
• Fungal infections — rare, mainly in people with weakened immune systems
• Non-infectious causes — rarely, certain medicines, cancers, or autoimmune diseases can trigger inflammation

Risk factors

• Being under 1 year old or over 65
• Not being vaccinated against common causes of meningitis
• Living closely with others, such as in student housing or military barracks
• A weakened immune system from illness or medicines
• Having had a recent sinus, ear, or lung infection
• Travel to certain parts of the world where meningitis is more common

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you or your child have any combination of fever, severe headache, stiff neck, vomiting, sensitivity to light, or feeling very sleepy — call for emergency care or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
• If a rash appears and does not fade under a glass, call emergency services right away.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have had close contact with someone diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, see a doctor as soon as possible for advice about preventive treatment.
• If you are experiencing persistent headaches, fever, or neck stiffness that worry you, even if mild, speak to your GP or local health service.

Diagnosis

A doctor will assess your symptoms and do a physical examination. If meningitis is suspected, urgent tests are arranged — usually in a hospital.

Tests that may be done

• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) — a small sample of fluid around the spinal cord is taken to check for infection
• Blood tests to look for bacteria or viruses
• Imaging scans like a CT or MRI of the head
• Sometimes a chest X-ray if a chest infection may be the source

What to expect at your appointment

If you or your child need tests for possible meningitis, you will usually be taken to the hospital quickly. You may be asked to lie still for a short procedure, and the medical team will explain each step. Treatment often starts before the definite cause is known, while waiting for test results.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause of meningitis. Bacterial meningitis needs hospital care with antibiotics given through a drip (intravenously). Viral meningitis usually improves with rest, fluids, and pain relief. Anyone with suspected bacterial meningitis is usually treated urgently in hospital.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink fluids to stay hydrated
• Take simple pain relief for headache — ask your pharmacist or doctor what is suitable
• Keep the room dim and quiet to reduce light sensitivity
• Follow your doctor's advice on when to return for review

Medical treatments

Bacterial meningitis is treated with antibiotics given directly into a vein, along with fluids and oxygen if needed. Corticosteroids may be used to reduce brain inflammation. Viral meningitis is usually managed with supportive care, such as fluids and pain relief, because antibiotics do not work for viruses. Antifungal medicines are used for fungal meningitis. All treatment is guided by your healthcare team based on the cause and your condition.

When is surgery considered?

In rare cases, surgery may be needed for complications such as a build-up of fluid in the brain or a collection of pus around the brain. Your specialist team will explain if this is ever required.

Living with this condition

Recovery from meningitis takes time. You may feel tired and weak for several weeks or months. Follow your doctor's advice on rest, returning to work or school, and gradually increasing activity.

Lifestyle tips

• Rest when you are tired and build up activity gradually
• Keep up with any follow-up appointments with your healthcare team
• Seek help early if you notice hearing problems, memory trouble, or mood changes
• Let family and friends know how you are feeling — support from others matters

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fluids while recovering. Gentle activity, like short walks, can help you regain strength, but avoid strenuous exercise until your doctor says it is safe.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A serious illness like meningitis can affect your mood and emotional well-being. Anxiety, low mood, and difficulty concentrating are common during recovery. If you feel this way, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. You can also seek support from trusted people in your life.

Prevention

Many types of bacterial meningitis can be prevented with vaccines. Good hygiene, like regular handwashing and not sharing personal items, can help reduce the spread of infections that may cause meningitis.

Vaccines

Vaccines are available for several causes of meningitis, including meningococcal, pneumococcal, and Hib infections. These are often part of routine childhood vaccination programmes. Check with your local health service or GP to see which vaccines are recommended for you and your family.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for meningitis in the general population. The best prevention is staying up to date with recommended vaccines and seeking urgent medical care if symptoms appear.

Complications

If left untreated

• Brain damage or learning difficulties
• Hearing loss
• Seizures or epilepsy
• Problems with memory or concentration
• Kidney or adrenal gland failure
• Loss of limbs (in severe cases due to blood infection)
• Death

Long-term outlook

With early diagnosis and treatment, most people with meningitis survive. Many make a full recovery, though some may have after-effects that need support. Medical care has improved greatly, and resources are available to help people adapt after a serious illness. Hope and support are part of recovery.

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