The Symptoms of Chronic Meningitis

Chronic meningitis is an inflammation of the subarachnoid area in the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Its symptoms are similar to the more common acute bacterial meningitis, but it has different causes and develops more slowly--over a period of at least four weeks, compared with hours or days for acute meningitis. Acute meningitis that has been treated but not cured can develop into chronic meningitis, according to the "Merck Manual Home Edition."

Flu-like Symptoms

• Headaches, a stiff neck and a fever are three classic symptoms of chronic meningitis. Since these also are signs of the flu, they may not be recognized as symptomatic of chronic meningitis until they persist for weeks or are accompanied by other meningitis symptoms.

Double Vision

• Double vision is one of the most common symptoms of chronic meningitis. It can occur when the disease affects the cranial nerves, which connect the brain to parts of the head and neck, according to the "Merck Manual Home Edition." Double vision may be accompanied by paralysis of the face.

Problems With Walking

• It isn't unusual for people with chronic meningitis to have difficulty walking. This symptom may be accompanied or worsened by a backache, weakness, "pins and needles" sensations and numbness, all of which are other signs of chronic meningitis.

Less Common Symptoms

• Confusion, trouble concentrating, sensitivity to light, chronic tiredness, seizures, nausea, and little interest in eating or drinking are less common but possible symptoms of chronic meningitis.

Warning

• If you have some of these symptoms and suspect you might have chronic meningitis, you should visit your doctor immediately. Most of these symptoms could also indicate viral meningitis, which could improve on its own within a few days, or bacterial meningitis, which could be fatal within a few days, so an early diagnosis is essential.