9. Lack of Appetite or Thirst: The Subtle Sign
Meningitis, like many other diseases, can bring about changes in appetite and thirst. While it may seem less threatening than the other symptoms, a sudden lack of appetite or thirst shouldn’t be overlooked. This subtle sign offers valuable insight into the body’s reaction to the disease.
When the body is fighting an infection as severe as meningitis, the normal desire for food and water can diminish. The body’s primary focus becomes battling the disease, often leading to a decline in regular bodily functions like eating and drinking. This can manifest as a sudden disinterest in food, skipping meals, or even an aversion to the sight, smell, or thought of food.
While changes in appetite or thirst may seem trivial compared to symptoms like seizures or severe headaches, they can have serious implications. Adequate nutrition and hydration are crucial to support the body’s defenses, and their absence can exacerbate the disease’s effects. Moreover, the lack of appetite often results in weight loss and malnutrition, while a reduced intake of fluids can lead to dehydration – both complications that can further strain the body. (9)
