Meningitis rash what does it look like

As the infection spreads, the rash becomes more obvious. More bleeding under the skin may cause the spots to turn dark red or deep purple. The rash may resemble large bruises. If you suspect meningitis, check lighter areas like the palms, eyelids, and inside the mouth. You can test this by pressing the side of a clear drinking glass against the skin.

If the rash looks like it fades, check periodically for changes. If you can still see the spots clearly through the glass, it may be a sign of septicemia, especially if you also have a fever.

The rash spreads and continues to darken as the condition advances. Blood vessel damage causes blood pressure and circulation to fall. Because the limbs are at the far reaches of the circulatory system, a system-wide decrease in blood pressure leads to inadequate oxygen delivery, especially in the limbs. This can injure tissue and lead to permanent scarring. Plastic surgery and skin grafting may be able to improve function after the illness passes.

In severe cases, it becomes necessary to amputate fingers, toes, arms, or legs. Rehabilitative services may be helpful in those cases, but recovery could take years. Neck pain and stiffness are common symptoms of meningitis. It can sometimes cause the head, neck, and spine to become rigid and arch backwards opisthotonos.

Getting plenty of rest and taking painkillers and anti-sickness medication can help relieve the symptoms in the meantime. Most people with bacterial meningitis who are treated quickly will also make a full recovery, although some are left with serious, long-term problems. These can include:. Find out more about meningitis on the NHS website. We will not reply to your feedback. Don't include any personal or financial information, for example National Insurance, credit card numbers, or phone numbers.

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Comments or queries about the Blue Badge scheme can be emailed to bluebadges infrastructure-ni. For queries or advice about claiming compensation due to a road problem, contact DFI Roads claim unit. For queries about your identity check, email nida nidirect. Devastatingly, as the extremities become starved of oxygen, they can become blackened which can lead to scarring and amputation.

What should I do if someone has lots of other meningitis symptoms, but no rash? Most patients with overwhelming meningococcal septicaemia develop a rash - it is one of the clearest and most important signs to recognise.

However, in cases of meningitis the rash can be very scanty, blanching, atypical or even absent. Please remember that a very ill person needs medical help even if there are only a few spots, a rash that fades, or no rash at all.

Trust your instincts, someone who has meningitis or septicaemia could become seriously ill very quickly. Get medical help immediately if you suspect meningitis or septicaemia — rash or no rash! I raise awareness of meningitis and septicaemia by sharing medical information about the disease with the general public and health professionals.

I am involved in organising MRF events for families and health professionals, and meet our members and supporters in the community offering our support, whatever their experience of meningitis and septicaemia. I also take helpline calls and answer emails from people with a range of queries about meningitis and septicaemia, including symptoms and after effects, and offer them support if they or their loved ones are affected.

I am humbled by the inspirational people we meet. What is the 'meningitis rash'? March The meningitis glass test What is the rash? Concerned about meningitis? This rash does not fade under pressure. If you live on your own, always make sure you tell someone if you are not feeling well. They can check up on you and take action if needed Trust your instincts.