22 January 2024 , 18:16
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Meningitis is the inflammation of the lining around your brain and spinal cord, which can lead to disastrous consequences if not treated quickly.
And luckily, the glass test should help you find it early and get the requisite medical treatment.
Some of the bacteria that cause the infection are also responsible for septicaemia, which can develop into a rash of tiny red or 'pin-prick' marks, which if not treated appropriately can have a negative impact.
Luckily, experts have revealed the details of the glass test. The simple experiment is used to see whether a rash fades under pressure. In this instance, if someone has a combination of a fever and a rash that does not fade under these circumstances, it is recommended to head straight to the doctor for immediate medical attention.
If you're concerned that you may be suffering from the infection, follow Meningitis Now's simple steps to conducting the glass test on yourself.
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Meningitis Glass Test
- You begin by placing a clear glass firmly against your skin
- At this point, spots/rash may fade. This is often called a blanching rash. But it's integral that you remain attentive as the rash can change into a non-blanching rash.
- It's of vital importance that you continue to check extremely carefully.
- If you have a fever with spots/rash that do not subseed under pressure, it is of optimum importance that you ask for medical assistance as soon as possible.
- If you are feeling ill, do not wait for a rash to develop. The sooner you seek medical help, the better. If you're beginning to feel ill, visit the hospital as soon as you can.
- The spots/rash are often harder to see on darker skin. Therefore, it is advised to double-check lighter areas, such as the palms of your hands, soles of your feet, inside the eyelids, and the roof of your mouth.
A meningitis rash is caused by bacteria in the bloodstream. They multiply at a staggering rate, releasing extremely harmful endotoxins (poisons) from their outer coating. Sadly, while our body has a remarkable natural defence system, there is little it can do to deter these poisons, which damage our blood vessels. As the septicaemia charges through the body, it begins to dismantle everything in its path, causing potential organ failure.
The rash, synonymous with the condition, comes to the surface through blood leaking into the tissues under our skin. However, while most merely look out for a rash, septicaemia can cause an array of symptoms that you should keep an eye out for. These include:
- Fever with cold hands and feet
- Joint or muscle pain
- Rapid breathing
- Stomach cramps and diarrhoea
If you live on your own and start to deteriorate, do not feel bad about reaching out to someone for help. Furthermore, if you visit the doctors and don't receive a diagnosis, bear in mind that early diagnosis is difficult. Do not feel guilty about going back to the doctor if you deem it necessary.
You can download Meningitis' mobile-optimised videos and images on your phone, or request one of their free credit-card-sized signs and symptoms cards by calling their Helpline on 0808 80 10 388.