Know The Signs Of Meningitis And Septicemia

Meningitis is an infection of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. Septicemia is a blood poisoning by the same germ. Both can develop very rapidly into a life-threatening condition. Although children are now being vaccinated against one for of meningitis, the infection can be caused by the other bacteria as well, so it is vital that all parents know the signs.

Signs of Meningitis

Severe headache

Stiff neck

Dislike of bright lights.

Fever / Vomiting

Drowsiness

Rash

Signs of Septicemia

Fever / Vomiting

Cold hands and feet

Rapid breathing

Joint / Muscle pain

Stomach pain (sometimes with diarrhoea)

Drowsiness

Rash

Other signs in babies

Tense or bulging fontanel (soft spot on the scalp)

Blotchy skin

Pale complexion

Refusing to eat

High pitched or moaning cry

Irritable when picked up

Stiff body with jerky movement or else floppy and lifeless

Difficult to wake or lethargic

Symptoms can appear in any order and not every child gets all the symptoms. If you are worried about someone who is ill, or your child has some of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

The rash is the most telltale sign of meningitis / septicemia and The Tumbler test is the best way to identify the rash. Press a glass tumbler firmly against the rash. If you can see the rash through the glass then get medical help immediately (it is harder to see on dark skin so check paler areas).

Do not wait for the rash. It may be the last symptom to appear, and in some cases it may not even appear at all.

For more information on health issues symptoms and treatments see http://www.familyhealthguide.co.uk