The brain has a blood barrier that safeguards brain from getting contaminated with blood. But certain infections can make these barriers weak thus causing inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. This condition is called as meningitis and can caused by virus or bacteria.

There are several reason that can cause meningitis, that can be bacterial infection, viral infection, fungal infection, lupus, reaction to medications, reactions to medical treatments, weak immune system, trauma to head or back and some forms of cancer.

Of all the causes bacterial meningitis is the worst and life threatening if not treated immediately and this is only possible when you are aware of the symptoms. It is sad but true, like most diseases the early symptoms of meningitis are difficult to recognize  as they would be similar to may other common illness.

The symptoms may vary from person to person. The most common symptoms include

Flu like symptoms
Severe headache
Pain in both eyes
Sensitivity to light
Stiffness in neck
Stiffness in upper back
Nausea
Vomiting
Fever
Achy body
Sleepy Feeling
Upset stomach 
Confused state of mind
feeling sick and tired

The symptoms of meningitis should not be sidetracked as it can further lead to swelling, and other more severe disability like coma or death.