Final answer:
Meningitis symptoms include fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting, irritability, poor feeding, seizures, rash, and photophobia. The presentation may vary with age, with neonates showing less specific signs. Immediate medical attention is essential for treatment, especially in bacterial cases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct option : 4
The symptoms of meningitis can vary based on the age of the patient. Neonates may not exhibit the classic symptoms typically seen in older children and adults. Instead, they may show signs of irritability, poor feeding, and a high-pitched cry. In children and adults, more common symptoms such as fever, headache, and a stiff neck are prevalent. Additional symptoms in these older groups can include vomiting, confusion, seizures, and a rash. Sensitivity to light (photophobia) is also a common symptom that may affect both children and adults. Certain bacterial causes of meningitis like Neisseria meningitidis can lead to severe complications, including hearing loss, and in extreme cases, can be fatal if not treated promptly.
Due to the potential severity of the disease, especially bacterial forms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if meningitis is suspected. It is especially urgent in cases involving neonates and young children, as their symptoms are less specific, and the disease may progress quickly. While viral meningitis tends to resolve on its own, bacterial meningitis requires urgent treatment with antibiotics like penicillin or ampicillin, combined with other medications such as gentamicin. All of the above,' as symptoms of meningitis can include a combination of fever, headache, stiff neck, vomiting, irritability, poor feeding, high-pitched cry, seizures, rash, and sensitivity to light, depending on the age of the patient.