What does a seizure feel like with meningitis?

Seizure is a common presentation of Meningitis. The person may suddenly stare, become unresponsive, stiffen, jerk, or lose muscle control. Some seizures begin with a warning such as a strange smell, rising feeling in the stomach, tingling, fear, or visual change. Afterward, confusion, sleepiness, headache, muscle soreness, or difficulty speaking can occur. Fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, light sensitivity, or a new rash can add concern for meningitis.

Move hard or sharp objects away, cushion the head, loosen tight clothing around the neck, and time the episode. Do not restrain the person and do not put food, drink, or objects in the mouth. When jerking stops, place them on their side and check breathing. Do not give tablets while they are drowsy or unable to swallow. Call emergency services and describe the seizure and any meningitis symptoms.

Treat a first seizure, a seizure lasting five minutes or longer, repeated seizures, breathing difficulty, serious injury, or failure to wake as an emergency. Suspected meningitis also requires immediate assessment, especially with fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, marked sleepiness, or a rash that does not fade when pressed. Do not drive the person yourself if they are actively seizing or seriously unwell.

Ask what may have triggered the seizure, whether tests are needed to assess meningitis, how to keep the person safe if it happens again, and which warning signs should prompt an ambulance. Share the seizure duration, movements, awareness, recovery, fever, medicines, and recent infections.