What is a sign of meningitis?

Nuchal rigidity is a sign of meningitis characterized by stiffness of the neck that makes it difficult for the individual to flex their neck forward. This symptom arises from irritation of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. In cases of meningitis, whether viral or bacterial, this irritation can lead to inflammation, causing muscle stiffness and pain when attempting to move the neck.

While photophobia, tachycardia, and bradycardia can occur in various medical conditions, they are not definitive signs or symptoms specifically associated with meningitis. Photophobia, or sensitivity to light, may occur due to increased intracranial pressure or irritation, but it is not as classic a sign as nuchal rigidity. Tachycardia and bradycardia relate to heart rate changes and can be present in a multitude of conditions, making them less specific indicators of meningitis. Thus, nuchal rigidity stands out as a hallmark sign of this condition, aiding in the clinical diagnosis of meningitis.