Symptoms Of Meningococcemia

Lethargy

Also known as drowsiness or fatigue, lethargy is one of the advanced symptoms patients with meningococcemia may exhibit. The patient may be difficult to wake, and they may drift in and out of consciousness. Eventually, many patients become comatose as a result of meningococcemia, and they usually need the assistance of a ventilator to breathe. To assess consciousness and evaluate the degree of a patient's lethargy, doctors use what is known as the Glasgow Coma Scale. The scale examines whether the patient can open their eyes, whether they can respond to commands, and whether they can speak. It also evaluates the patient's motor responses. Patients who are unconscious or who are experiencing severe drowsiness will have their vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, closely monitored by hospital staff.

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Shock

Shock generally occurs in the late stages of this infection. Patients experiencing this symptom may have nausea, vomiting, clammy skin, a rapid heart rate, a fast rate of breathing, and enlarged pupils. Their skin may also be very pale, and some patients be agitated and confused. Patients will be given oxygen to help ease their breathing, and drugs such as fludrocortisone and midodrine can be given if a patient's blood pressure drops too low. Even in the absence of other symptoms, shock is considered a medical emergency. If family members or friends notice the patient is showing signs of this symptom, an ambulance should be called, and it is important to try to keep the patient as calm as possible. Tight clothing should be loosened, and a blanket should be placed over the patient to provide warmth. Importantly, the patient should not be moved until the ambulance arrives.

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