11. Rapid Breathing or Shortness of Breath: An Alarm Signal of Meningitis
Meningitis can cause rapid breathing or shortness of breath. These symptoms result from the body’s attempt to counterbalance the effects of the disease, especially if fever or sepsis (a severe response to infection) are present.
Patients might feel as if they can’t draw a deep breath, or they may become winded performing tasks that normally wouldn’t strain them. These respiratory changes, particularly when seen with other symptoms of meningitis, necessitate immediate medical evaluation.
The presence of breathing difficulties in meningitis underscores the severity of the condition. It’s a critical symptom that points to the need for immediate medical intervention.
Notably, the shortness of breath associated with meningitis is not typically relieved by rest or breathing exercises. This persistence underlines the severity of the disease and the urgency for medical treatment. (11)
