Typical signs in children

In children, meningitis presents in a similar way to that in adults. It is important to distinguish it from infants, as other, not necessarily typical signs of meningitis are present in babies. In the case of meningitis in children, the usual signs usually appear, including meningism, headaches and fever.

It is important to take the temperature regularly, as high fever can become dangerous more quickly in children than in adults. Children also develop typical signs of photophobia and hypersensitivity to noise. This can manifest itself by a frequent retreat into the dark child’s room.

In addition, there is a rare but dreaded complication of meningitis, especially in children and young adults, which can only occur when meningitis is caused by menigococcus, a type of bacteria. It is the Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome, which is externally indicated by typical signs such as bleeding into the skin, fever and loss of consciousness. This complication is life-threatening, but rarely occurs. However, it is more likely to occur in children.

Typical signs in the baby

The signs of meningitis in babies differ considerably from the typical signs observed in adults and children. Whereas in older patients an existing meningismus is the strongest typical sign of meningitis, it is usually absent in babies. Since pain cannot be asked for either, other signs of meningitis must be considered.

In babies, lethargy is particularly noticeable. The baby is lethargic and reacts less to the environment. In addition, signs such as weakness in drinking and reduced food intake can be signs of meningitis.

The baby may also vomit and have difficulty breathing. In the course of the disease, other signs appear which already indicate advanced meningitis. In this phase, there is shrill crying, which alternates with phases of reduced consciousness. Seizures can occur.One sign of increased intracranial pressure in the baby, as can occur in meningitis, is a bulging fontanel. If you notice changes in the baby that cannot be explained otherwise, a pediatrician should be consulted immediately, since meningitis can also be hidden behind this.