Complications and Risks of Meningitis

Meningitis can cause serious complications, especially if treatment is late. Many people recover fully, but some are left with lasting harm.

Brain and nerve complications

• Hearing loss: the most common long-term problem after bacterial meningitis. A hearing test is advised after recovery.
• Seizures (fits): during illness, or later as epilepsy
• Brain swelling and raised pressure
• Hydrocephalus: fluid build-up in the brain, sometimes needing a shunt
• Stroke and brain abscess
• Memory, concentration and learning problems
• Vision problems and balance problems
• Cerebral palsy or developmental delay in babies

Body-wide complications

• Septicaemia (blood poisoning): especially with meningococcus, with a non-fading rash, shock and organ failure
• Kidney failure and low blood pressure
• Loss of fingers or limbs due to poor blood flow in severe meningococcal disease
• Skin scarring from the rash

Death

Bacterial meningitis can be fatal even with treatment. TB meningitis also has a high risk if it is late. Newborns and older adults are at highest risk.

Emotional effects

Anxiety, low mood and tiredness are common after serious illness. Counselling and support help.

Who is at higher risk

Babies, older adults, people with weak immunity, and those who delay treatment.

Reducing the risk

Get vaccines, seek emergency care at the first warning signs and complete the full course of treatment.

Emergency (112 or 102)

Fever with stiff neck, severe headache, confusion, fits or a non-fading rash.