Viral Symptoms of Meningitis

Meningitis is a viral infection (though it may also be bacterial) that is characterized by an inflammation of the tissue and fluid surrounding both the brain and the spinal cord. Viral is the most common form of the condition and can be easily passed from person to person, especially within close proximity. When someone contracts viral meningitis, he will typically exhibit certain, fairly ambiguous symptoms.

Headache

• Most people suffering from viral meningitis usually experience a moderate to severe headache. However, it is almost always accompanied by other symptoms.

Fever

• The majority of people with viral meningitis also suffer from a rather high fever, usually starting out at 100 degrees F. This symptom is often confused with a cold or the flu.

Stiff Neck

• Since viral meningitis causes the area around the brain and spinal cord to become inflamed, many people suffer from a stiff neck. Most people will feel this stiffness when nodding.

Nausea

• Along with these other somewhat vague symptoms, most people with viral meningitis usually feel nauseated or quite queasy. It may also prompt a person to vomit.

Fatigue

• As the body focuses its attention on fighting the infection, a person will begin to feel a certain amount of exhaustion or fatigue.

Cognitive Changes

• Some people suffering from viral meningitis may also experience a symptom involving their cognitive aptitude, inducing periods of uncertainty or confusion.

Seizures

• Viral meningitis may also elicit the rather troubling symptom of seizures. A person doesn't need any sort of history or predisposition of seizures to experience this symptom.