What are the symptoms of meningitis in adults?
Meningitis is a serious illness usually caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. Symptoms of meningitis in adults may vary depending on the cause, but early recognition and treatment are crucial. Here's a closer look at the symptoms of meningitis in adults.
1. Common symptoms
Typical symptoms of meningitis in adults include:
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| headache | Severe and persistent headache, often accompanied by neck stiffness |
| Fever | High fever, body temperature may exceed 38°C |
| stiff neck | Neck muscles are tense and pain worsens when you lower your head |
| nausea and vomiting | Nausea and vomiting accompanying headache |
| Photophobia | Sensitivity to light, difficulty opening eyes |
| Confusion | Changes in mental status, such as drowsiness or coma |
2. Differences in symptoms of different types of meningitis
Meningitis can be classified as viral, bacterial, or fungal, with slightly different symptoms:
| Type | Symptom characteristics |
|---|---|
| viral meningitis | Symptoms are mild and usually include headache, fever, and neck stiffness, and may be accompanied by a rash |
| bacterial meningitis | Symptoms are severe and progress rapidly and may include high fever, severe headache, confusion, and seizures |
| fungal meningitis | Symptoms develop slowly and may include chronic headaches, low-grade fever, and personality changes |
3. Other possible accompanying symptoms
In addition to the typical symptoms listed above, meningitis in adults may be accompanied by the following symptoms:
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| rash | Especially with bacterial meningitis, purple-red spots may appear |
| epileptic seizure | Sudden convulsions or loss of consciousness |
| hearing loss | Some patients may experience hearing loss or tinnitus |
| limb weakness | Weakness or decreased coordination in the limbs |
4. When to seek medical treatment
Seek medical attention immediately if:
1. Severe headache with stiff neck
2. High fever exceeding 39°C
3. Confusion or coma
4. Epileptic seizures
5. Purple-red rash appears
5. Preventive measures
Ways to prevent meningitis include:
1. Get vaccinated (such as meningococcal vaccine)
2. Maintain good personal hygiene habits
3. Avoid close contact with infected people
4. Enhance immunity and maintain a healthy lifestyle
Meningitis is a disease that requires urgent treatment, and it is crucial to recognize symptoms early and seek medical help. If you or someone close to you develops any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
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