Meningitis

Expert Diagnosis, Care and Support at The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital

What Causes Meningitis?

Meningitis can be caused by:

• Bacterial infections (most serious form, requiring urgent treatment)
• Viral infections (more common and often less severe)
• Fungal infections
• Non-infectious causes, such as autoimmune diseases, cancers, or medication reactions

Symptoms of Meningitis

Meningitis symptoms can develop suddenly and vary depending on the age of the patient and the cause. Key symptoms include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Confusion or altered mental state
• Seizures
• Cold hands and feet, limb pain, or pale/mottled skin
• A distinctive rash (particularly in meningococcal meningitis)
• In babies: high-pitched crying, poor feeding, bulging soft spot on the head (fontanelle)

If you or someone else shows signs of meningitis, seek urgent medical attention.

Diagnosis and Testing

Early diagnosis is critical. At The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital, we offer:

• Neurological assessments
• Blood tests and cultures
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to analyse cerebrospinal fluid
• CT or MRI scans if required

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Bacterial meningitis is treated urgently with intravenous antibiotics and hospital care
• Viral meningitis may require supportive treatment such as fluids, rest, and pain relief
• Fungal meningitis or autoimmune-related causes may need antifungal or immunosuppressive medication

Our hospital provides continuous monitoring, high-quality inpatient care, and access to rehabilitation services for patients recovering from neurological complications caused by meningitis.

Ongoing Support and Rehabilitation

Some patients may experience lasting effects such as fatigue, memory problems, hearing loss, or coordination difficulties. Our specialist rehabilitation services offer:

• Emotional and psychological support
• Neuropsychological assessment
• Speech and language therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Physiotherapy

When to Seek Medical Help

Meningitis can escalate rapidly. If you suspect meningitis in yourself or someone else, call 999 or seek emergency care immediately. Early treatment can be life-saving.

Why Choose The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital?

• Specialist neuro-rehabilitation centre
• Onsite diagnostics and therapy services
• Multidisciplinary care from consultant neurologists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and more
• Compassionate, patient-centred care

If you are concerned about symptoms, require a consultation, or need follow-up care after meningitis, please contact The Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital to book an appointment with one of our neurology or infectious disease specialists.

Our Resident Neurologist

Dr Weatherall is very welcoming and highly experienced. He offers his patients sound diagnosis and treatment, along with individual care focused on their future health.

Dr Mark Weatherall

Consultant Neurologist

Aaron Field