Aseptic Meningitis Symptoms & Diagnosis

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 © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.