A Persistent Stiff Neck
A persistent stiff neck is one of the telltale signs that it could potentially be meningitis, mainly because the meninges are the membrane and fluid around the spinal cord and the brain. When you already have other symptoms, such as confusion, headaches, fever, and muscle/joint pain, it’s not easy to discount stiff pain as just another part of a common illness. However, when you have a stiff neck, and you’re also confused and unable to focus, it’s typically a sign that it’s time to contact the doctor.
Of course, a stiff neck can occur when you sleep in an awkward position. However, for such symptoms to occur at once is not something to take lightly. Even if it might be a coincidence, it’s best to contact a doctor to determine if you should be brought to the hospital. While it might be stressful to think about dealing with a medical emergency, it’s best to err on the side of caution. Remember that bacterial meningitis can be fatal within a few days if left untreated.
