Key Warning Signs Of Meningitis

Muscle Pain

Muscle pain is an early symptom of meningitis, and it can occur with any form of the condition. Patients with muscle pain caused by meningitis could initially think they have the flu, and they usually report widespread soreness and tenderness over many areas of the body. Patients with the bacterial form of meningitis could experience back pain, and this often worsens while bending the legs close to the chest. Muscle pain associated with this condition could be present all the time, and it may increase with any change of posture or position. Individuals with meningitis may notice their muscle pain occurs together with other early-stage symptoms such as a low fever of less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, a loss of appetite, and nausea or vomiting. Patients with these symptoms should seek immediate medical care. Doctors may ask the patient questions about the location and nature of any muscle pain, and they could ask the patient to perform certain movements to check for pain or tenderness. For example, the patient may be asked to touch their chin to their chest, and the doctor may gently touch areas of reported pain to assess severity.