8 signs of meningitis in children that parents need to know
(Baonghean.vn) - Meningitis often occurs during hot weather or when changing seasons because many children have respiratory diseases - a favorable time for bacteria and viruses to enter the central nervous system... The symptoms that appear in children below can be the source of meningitis that parents need to pay attention to.
1. Sudden fever
One of the symptoms of meningitis in children is a sudden fever; the child's body shivers and always feels cold, especially it is very difficult to reduce the fever. However, in fact, this is also a symptom of many different diseases, so parents need to pay attention to other signs to conclude whether the child has meningitis or not.
2. Headache
Headaches caused by meningitis are often prolonged attacks that make children cry. This condition also leads to stiffness in the neck, making it difficult for children to move. In particular, if the child's head has a bulging fontanel, it is highly likely that the child has meningitis.
3. Convulsions
It can be in the hands, feet, eyes, mouth or the whole body. Some children have simple convulsions due to high fever or some children have electrolyte disturbances, but it is also necessary to monitor the child for meningitis.
4. Sleepy all the time
If the part of the cerebral cortex that controls consciousness and alertness becomes infected, it can lead to loss of alertness or extreme fatigue, causing drowsiness or a feeling of sleepiness all the time.
5. Sensitive to light
Another common symptom of meningitis is sensitivity to light. Children will cover their eyes or complain that light makes their eyes water, makes them nauseous, and makes their headaches worse.
6. Stiff neck
One of the most typical symptoms of meningitis in children is a stiff neck, difficulty moving as desired, leading to difficulty turning the head. You need to pay attention when you see your child holding his head strangely, or see that his neck is less flexible than usual... Try to let your child's chin touch his chest; if he can touch his chin to his chest without any difficulty, it is fine. But if it causes discomfort or pain when touching his chin to his chest, take him to the doctor for timely examination.
7. Cannot break legs
One of the specific signs of meningitis in children is the Brudzinki sign - when the head is raised, the legs are bent. Parents can check by letting the child lie on his back without a pillow, with both legs straight. Then, put your hand under the child's heels and slowly lift both legs up. Normally, when raised to over 70 degrees, the legs are still straight, but if the child's legs are bent (the calves bend towards the thighs) before reaching 70 degrees, this is a sign that the child may have meningitis.
8. Hives or rash
Children with meningitis are also prone to rashes and hives. However, this symptom can be related to a number of other diseases. To accurately identify whether your child has meningitis or not, try the following: Take a glass cup and place it on the rash, press firmly until it turns pale. If the rash is faint, it means your child does not have meningitis. On the contrary, if the rash is clearly visible through the glass, take your child to see a doctor immediately.
