Symptoms
Classic symptoms of viral meningitis include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Stiff, sore neck
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sensitivity to bright lights
- Sleepiness
In newborns and infants:
- Inactivity
- High fever (especially unexplained high fever)
- Irritability
- Vomiting
- Feeding poorly or refusing to eat
- Tautness or bulging of soft spots between skull bones
- Difficulty awakening
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. The doctor will focus on the nervous system. To help rule out other causes of the inflammation, such as a tumor, your doctor may order an:
- MRI scan —a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside of the body
- CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside of the body
To rule out bacterial meningitis, the following tests may be done:
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) —removal of fluid from the lower spinal column to be tested for bacteria (bacterial cultures)
- Other cultures—blood, urine, mucus, and/or pus from skin infections
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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