Spotting the symptoms of meningitis early could save your child’s life. Here’s what to look out for
Posted: 21 September 2009
by Celia Morgan
Meningitis and scepticaemia can affect any baby and there is an increased risk for newborns, as their immune systems are not fully developed. It's therefore vital that parents are aware of the symptoms to ensure that they are not mistaken for flu.
Meningitis warning signs
- Sleepiness and difficult to rouse
- Vomiting (this can also be projectile and in large quantities)
- A bulging or tense fontanel (the soft spot on top of your baby's head)
- Seem irritable when handled
- High-pitched shrieking or crying. especially when handled
- Cold hands and feet despite a high temperature
- Purple rash that does not fade with pressure (see the Tumbler Test below) This does not always appear in babies and is usually only present when the child also has scepticaemia (see below)
- Neck stiffness and a dislike of bright lights are symptoms of meningitis, but are unusual in babies
Scepticaemia warning signs
- Rash (meningitis alone rarely causes a rash – see the Tumbler Test below)
These symptoms appear in any order over one to two days or a matter of hours. And there may be other symptoms. If you suspect meningitis, seek urgent medical assistance immediately.
Expert Tip
If you suspect meningitis, be prepared to insist on urgent medical attention. Take your child to the emergency department of the nearest hospital or dial 999 for an ambulance.
Dr Miriam Stoppard
Many of the symptoms commonly associated with meningitis only appear when the disease is already advanced. Fast actions are vital when either meningitis or septicemia are suspected. This really can save lives! Hospitals would much rather parents be safe than sorry.
The Tumbler Test
Should your baby have a rash, use the tumbler test to check for septicaemia:
- Press a glass tumbler firmly against the rash. If it doesn’t fade, it could be a septicaemic rash.
- If this happens, seek medical advice immediately. And even if you’re not quite sure, don’t wait.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity, speed of detection and your baby's constitution. Some can be treated in hospital with strong antibiotics and other children ill go straight to the critical stage and need intensive care and ventilation. Knowing the symptoms and getting your child to a doctor as soon as possible are critical to his treatment.
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