The Symtoms Of Meningitis And Septicaemia

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by either a virus or bacteria.

Viral meningitis is usually mild and does not require medical treatment. Bacterial meningitis however can be life-threatening and can come on very quickly. Children under five are most likely to be affected and sadly some of these will die.

There are several types of bacteria that can cause meningitis, the most common being meningococcal bacteria. Most of carry this bacteria in our noses and throats without becoming ill. The bacteria can be passed through kissing, sneezing and coughing. Only if the bacteria reaches the blood stream does the person contract meningitis and/or septicaemia - most people who get meningitis will also get septicaemia.

Mercifully, meningitis and septicaemia cases are quite rare. However, it is important to know the symptoms as early treatment is vital.

Symptoms

  • High temperature - above 99.5°F/37.5°C.
  • Extreme sleepiness - difficulty in waking baby.
  • Headache.
  • Staring expression
  • Dislike of bright lights
  • Stiff neck
  • Difficulty breathing, or fast breathing.
  • Shivering.
  • Vomiting.
  • Purpley-red or brown rash.
  • Cold hands and feet.
  • Bulging soft spot (fontanelle).
  • Blotchy skin getting paler or turning blue.
  • A high-pitched or moaning cry.
  • Abnormally stiff body with jerky movements.

A septicaemia rash usually starts as purpley-red or brown pinpricks on the skin anywhere on the body. To check whether the rash is a sign of septicaemia, press a clear glass against the rash. Other rashes will fade, if this one does not do so it is likely to be septicaemia.

****************************************************************
Author: Tony and Katy Luck who run a site with help on having a baby and a personalized gift shop.
****************************************************************

In The News:

pen paper and inkwell


cat break through


Paediatric Osteopathy

All babies cry, but if yours cries a lot, isn't... Read More

Social Engineering via Robotic Toddlers

Is there a way to build a robot to help... Read More

Math Facts - Try Some Fun Ways to Learn Them

Memorizing math facts is a necessary part of elementary school.... Read More

The Benefits of Music Education

Despite serious reductions in funding for arts programs in... Read More

7 Things To Teach Your Kids About Money

Did you know that many people retire broke?It's true. After... Read More

Examining Drugs for ADHD, Particularly Strattera

In memory of 14 year old Matthew Smith; 11 year... Read More

Beginning the Special Education Process

Like anything else in life, there's a method to the... Read More

Parents, Teach Thought-Stopping! Fix Crooked Thinking Caps

Does your child pout, blame and brood? Does he gripe,... Read More

Unilateral Disarmament - The First Step to Improving Communications with Your Teenagers

Many times, we are so conditioned in how we speak... Read More

Helpful Tips for the Adoptive Grandparent

Few things are more completely enjoyable than becoming a grandparent.... Read More

Top 20 Items To Pack In A Diaper Bag

1. Diapers (5 -7 is a fairly safe supply)2. Wipes3.... Read More

8 Tips To Save On Child Care Costs

Child care costs are are one of the most expensive... Read More

Go Ahead - Make Dads Day

Throughout the year, many days of celebration are tucked capriciously... Read More

How Is Peaceful Parenting® Different?

Peaceful Parenting® ideas are very different from other kinds of... Read More

Sharing Books with Children

One of my first memories of childhood is that of... Read More

Get Down (On The Floor!) And Play With Your Children

When was the last time you and your kids rolled... Read More

Tips for Parents of Teenagers: Dont Just Survive - Thrive!

What makes parenting so challenging at times? One widespread research... Read More

Powerful Tips for Increasing Your Childs Self-Esteem

Here is a list of ways to convey the message... Read More

Blended Families Can Be Successful

Many families today are blending members from past relationships. It... Read More

Twin and Multiple Births are on the Rise

Did you know that the number of twin births have... Read More

Eco-Parenting

Arabella Greatorex, owner of The Natural Nursery, reports on the... Read More

Parenting Your Teenager: How to Respond to Manipulation

Q. My daughter has gotten very good at manipulating us,... Read More

The Mystery of Child Beliefs, Spirit in Children, Understanding Spirtuality in Children

In the wonderment of childhood, it is easier for a... Read More

Defrazzle with a Hearty Guffaw

"The best blush to use is laughter: It put roses... Read More

What To Do When You Think Your Child Might Have AD/HD

AD/HD (attention deficit disorder) is one of the most common... Read More

Awesome Dads Top Ten Communication Intentions

An Awesome Dad in by no means perfect. But that... Read More

Girls Gone Mild

Voices!So many voices crying out for adherence and so many... Read More

Over-Indulgence And Over-Attentiveness - Two Dangers Parents Must Avoid!

We're all familiar with the over-indulgent parent. But there's another... Read More

Influencing Adolescents - Guided Democracy

You need to smart to be able influence adolescents. You... Read More

Parenting Your Teenager: 3 Ways to Make the Time

Every now and then I'll get a story sent to... Read More

A Minute Can Turn into Hours for the Child of a Work-at-Home Mom

In theory, working at home is an ideal situation. But... Read More

Raising a Self-Sufficient Teen

Teens don't learn responsibility overnight. If you haven't been working... Read More

The Great Baby Name Debate

Winifred or Willow? Thomas or Troy? The name you choose... Read More