A neurologist has issued a stark warning about a specific type of headache that could prove fatal within hours. Dr Baibing Chen emphasised that people should not ignore this headache, as it may be triggered by meningitis, a potentially deadly infection.
What Is Meningitis?
Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi, with bacterial meningitis being the most dangerous form. According to Dr Chen, bacterial meningitis "can become life-threatening very quickly." He highlighted that vaccines against bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae type B, pneumococcus, and meningococcus have saved countless lives by preventing some of the most dangerous forms of bacterial meningitis.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
In a social media video, Dr Chen warned that this headache is an emergency. The classic symptoms of meningitis include a severe headache, high fever, stiff neck, and sensitivity to light. Some people may also become confused, extremely sleepy, or develop a purple rash that does not fade when pressed. The NHS describes a meningitis headache as "a severe headache that is getting worse."
Dr Chen cautioned that early on, meningitis can resemble common viral illnesses, causing people to delay seeking medical care. He advised: "If someone has these symptoms, especially if they're not vaccinated, go to the emergency department immediately because getting evaluated and treated early gives doctors the best chance to identify the cause and start the right treatment as quickly as possible."
Causes and Spread of Meningitis
According to the NHS, meningitis is spread through close contact with an infected person. This includes contact with saliva, such as kissing, sharing drinks or vapes, or spending a lot of time in close proximity, like living in the same home. The infection is usually spread by carriers who are not ill themselves. Anyone can get meningitis, but it is more common in babies and young children, teenagers and young adults, older people, and those with weakened immune systems (e.g., people with HIV or undergoing chemotherapy). It is possible to get meningitis more than once.
When to Call 999
The NHS advises calling 999 or going to A&E if an adult or child aged five years or over has any of the following: a very high or very low temperature, feeling hot or cold to the touch or shivery; a very painful headache; confusion, slurred speech, or not making sense; a stiff neck and inability to look at bright lights; a rash that does not fade when pressed; a seizure for the first time; or any symptoms you are worried might be meningitis.
For babies and children under five, additional warning signs include: a very high temperature (38°C or more in babies under three months, or 39°C or more in babies three to six months); a very low temperature (less than 36°C) or feeling cold to the touch or shivery; a weak, high-pitched, or continuous cry; a rash that does not fade when pressed; not responding normally, not feeding, or being floppy, difficult to wake, or more sleepy than usual; or any symptoms you are worried might be meningitis.
Dr Chen stressed that most headaches are not emergencies, but meningitis is different. Prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent life-threatening outcomes.
