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Lawsuits for Failure to Diagnose Meningitis When Warning Signs
Were Missed by the Doctor.
Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for a person to
survive bacterial meningitis and not suffer long-term health
effects. So it is very important to watch out for symptoms.
The most common warning signs, which could vary from person to
person, are as follows:
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· Vomiting
· High temperature and severe headaches
· Neck stiffness
· A dislike of bright lights
· Drowsiness
· Joint pains
· Seizures
· A purple rash that will not turn white when pressed |
Meningitis in adults: Bacterial meningitis can occur
for a number of reasons. Often, it is the result of an
infection by bacteria that already live in the nose and mouth.
The bacteria enter the blood and become lodged in the brain’s
outer covering, the meninges. Meningitis can also be caused by
the spread of an infection occurring near the brain, such as
from the ears or the sinuses. It is also an occasional
complication of brain, head, or neck surgery. The average age
for meningitis is 25 years. It affects both men and women
equally.
Meningitis in children: The highest incidence of
meningitis is between birth and 2 years, with the greatest
risk immediately following birth and at three to eight months.
Increased exposure to infections and underlying immune system
problems present at birth increase a child’s risk of
meningitis. Newborns and young infants may not have the
classic signs and symptoms of headache and stiff neck.
Instead, they may cry constantly, seem unusually sleepy or
irritable, and eat poorly. Sometimes the soft spots on an
infant’s head may bulge.
However, irrespective of whether it is an adult or child,
delaying the treatment of bacterial meningitis increases the
risk of permanent brain damage. Also, the disease can prove
fatal in a matter of days. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is
absolutely essential for those afflicted with bacterial
meningitis.
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