see also Meningitis, Meningitis in Children
Potentially more serious in infants and toddlers than in older children and adults as there is a slight risk of brain damage if condition is not detected and treated in early stages. First symptom is Fever of 39°C (102°F) or more; early signs of head pain are unusual irritability or quietness, and turning eyes away from light; infant will also hold neck rigid or arched back despite attempts to push head forward; other symptoms may be, going off feeds, diarrhoea and eruption of a rash that does not blanch on pressure. Try pressing it with a glass. Vomiting and convulsions (see Febrile Convulsions, Fits in Children), an unusual high-pitched cry, and a purplish rash on trunk; in very young babies, fontanelle (meeting point of skull bones on top of head) may bulge due to pressure of cerebrospinal fluid around brain.
If meningitis is suspected, contact Emergency Medical Services; baby may need antibiotics and intravenous drip. Chances of complete recovery, with no residual mental handicap, are good.
Specific remedies to be given every 5 minutes until help arrives
- Symptoms onset after head injury Arnica 30c
- Baby restless, panicky, thirsty, skin feels very dry Aconite 30c
- Baby very hot, making unusual noises and movements, pupils wide and staring Belladonna 30c
- Baby obviously in great pain, unusually quiet, unable to look into light Bryonia 30c
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