Meningitis May be Misdiagnosed as a Cold

While it is a serious medical condition, meningitis may be misdiagnosed as a cold or flu. Meningitis is caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Early meningitis symptoms can resemble those of a cold, which can lead to misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis. So if you or a loved one were misdiagnosed or received a delayed diagnosis, you may want to make a claim for medical negligence.

Jefferies Claims can assist you take the first step in getting the compensation you deserve.

Meningitis and Its Symptoms

Meningitis presents with a range of symptoms that may initially resemble those of the flu or a cold. Therefore some of the early signs include:

• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Stiff neck
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Seizures in severe cases

Common Cold Symptoms and Overlapping Signs

A cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, primarily the nose and throat. Symptoms of the common cold include:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Mild fever
• Fatigue and body aches

There is a clear overlap between some early symptoms of meningitis and the common cold, particularly fever, fatigue, and headaches. This similarity can sometimes lead to misdiagnosis, especially in the early stages of meningitis.

Why Meningitis May be Misdiagnosed as a Common Cold

Meningitis, particularly viral meningitis, can start with mild flu-like symptoms that mimic a cold. Here are some reasons why doctors and individuals may mistake meningitis for a common cold:

1. Mild Onset: Viral meningitis often starts with symptoms similar to a respiratory infection.
2. Absence of Stiff Neck Early On: While neck stiffness is a hallmark symptom of meningitis, it may not appear in the early stages, making it harder to distinguish from a cold.
3. Fever Confusion: Many viral infections cause fever, making it difficult to differentiate from a common cold.
4. Self-Diagnosis and Home Treatment: People often self-diagnose and treat early cold symptoms with over-the-counter medication, delaying proper medical evaluation.
5. Misinterpretation by Healthcare Providers: In the absence of severe symptoms, healthcare providers might diagnose a cold or flu without considering meningitis.

Key Differences Between Meningitis and the Common Cold

To avoid misdiagnosis, it is important to recognise the distinguishing factors between meningitis and a cold. Meningitis symptoms include a sudden high fever, a stiff neck, a persistent headache, sensitivity to light, nausea and possible confusion.

If any of these symptoms appear, urgent medical evaluation is necessary.

Claim for Medical Negligence

At Jefferies Claims, we will support you and your family through this process with care and understanding. We only work with lawyers who will assess all aspects of your case and who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. This ensures no financial stress for you when it comes to making your claim.

Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034. Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation with a member of our expert team.