Meningitis information
Signs and symptoms
In response to the recently published NICE guidelines for the management of bacterial meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia, we have updated our signs and symptoms card. Download a new card here. You can also request a card by calling 01453 768000 or emailing info@meningitis-trust.org
Meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are not always easy to recognise, and symptoms can appear in any order. Some may not appear at all. In the early stages, the signs and symptoms can be similar to many other more common illnesses, for example flu.
Trust your instincts. If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, get medical help immediately.
Early symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea(feeling sick), vomiting (being sick), and muscle pain, with cold hands and feet.
Someone with meningitis or septicaemia can get a lot worse very
quickly. Keep checking them.
A rash that does not fade under pressure (see ‘The Glass Test’)
is a sign of meningococcal septicaemia. This rash may begin as
a few small spots anywhere on the body and can spread quickly
to look like fresh bruises.
The spots or rash are caused by blood leaking into the tissues
under the skin.
They are more difficult to see on darker skin,
so look on paler areas of the skin
and under the eyelids. The spots
or rashmayfade at first, so keep checking.
However, if someone is ill or is obviously getting worse, do not wait for spots or a rash to appear. They may appear late or may not appear at all.
The Glass Test
Spots or a rash will still be seen when the side of a clear drinking glass is pressed firmly against the skin.
A fever, together with spots or a rash that do not fade under pressure, is a medical emergency.
Trust your instincts
If you suspect meningitis or septicaemia, get medical help immediately. You can:
• Call NHS Direct/NHS 24 or your GP
• Go to your nearest accident and emergency department
• Dial 999 for an ambulance
Describe the symptoms and say you think it could be meningitis or septicaemia.
Early diagnosis can be difficult. If you have had advice and are still worried, get medical help again.
Carry one of our symptoms cards in your purse or wallet.
Meningitis signs and symptoms iPhone app
The meningitis app for the iPhone, a free lifesaving awareness app.
Click here to download today.
