Which specialist treats meningitis?

Meningitis is inflammation around the brain and spinal cord. It can worsen quickly, and symptoms may include fever, severe headache, vomiting, light sensitivity, a seizure, confusion, drowsiness or a stiff neck. A hospital team may include emergency clinicians, infectious-disease specialists, neurologists and paediatricians, depending on the person's age and condition.

Tests are chosen urgently to identify the cause and guide treatment. Do not wait for every typical symptom to appear, and do not rely on a rash being present.

Call emergency services or go to an emergency department immediately if meningitis is suspected. Tell staff about the onset and progression of symptoms, recent infections, travel, medicines and vaccination history. Do not drive if the person is confused, faint, having a seizure or too unwell to travel safely. A GP consultation is not a substitute for emergency assessment when warning signs are present.

Seek emergency help now for fever with severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, light sensitivity, confusion, unusual sleepiness, a seizure, collapse or a rapidly spreading rash. Babies and young children may show poor feeding, irritability, reduced responsiveness or a bulging soft spot rather than describing headache. If symptoms are severe, do not wait for a routine appointment.

After urgent care begins, ask which cause is suspected, which tests are planned, how treatment will be monitored, and whether close contacts need advice. Ask about warning signs during recovery and whether meningococcal vaccination is relevant for prevention.