Headache
Meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges, which is the outer layer of the brain. Thus, headaches should be one of the most common symptoms. Headache in meningitis is often intense, but it may be intermittent in tuberculous meningitis or very mild during the prodromal state and in younger children.
Headache is reported in almost every case of meningitis, but the onset is not abrupt and violent. Instead it is progressive and sustained. An abrupt and severe headache should be assessed by a doctor in the emergency room, as it may be caused by a vascular reason that might be life-threatening in the short term.
