My friend went to the hospital in Memphis, Tennessee complaining of flu like symptoms but the emergency room doctor discharged her. Later she returned to the doctor and she was diagnosed with meningitis. What are the signs and symptoms associated with meningitis and does she have a claim for medical bills?

Meningitis is an infection or inflammation process that affects the lining of the brain and central nervous system. If left untreated or if treatment is delayed as a result of misdiagnosis, the patient can become seriously injured or even die. The signs and symptoms of meningitis can develop quickly, within a matter of hours, or they can develop over a number of days. The most common signs and symptoms include:

High fever
Severe headache that is different than other types
Stiff neck
Vomiting or nausea
Sensitivity to light
Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Many of these signs and symptoms can be confused with the flu or other illnesses, such as a brain aneurysm. The only way for a doctor to diagnose meningitis and to determine what type, is to perform a spinal fluid test. The most common types of meningitis are:

Viral Meningitis – This type may improve, even without treatment, in a matter of days
Bacterial Meningitis – This type is serious and doctors must treat quickly with powerful antibiotics in order to improve a person’s chance of survival. Delayed treatment can result in brain damage and even death.
If you know someone who was misdiagnosed and suffered injury or death as a result of any form of meningitis, please call the Tennessee medical malpractice attorneys at Bailey & Greer for a free consultation. We have a registered nurse on staff standing by to take your call at 1-888-470-9143.

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.