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Can Having A Cold Make Your Neck Hurt?

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Posted on Thu, 7 Jun 2018
Question: A week and a half ago, my 10 year old son developed a fever and nausea with cold like symptoms (stuffy nose, congestion, sore throat). With it came an immediate stiff neck and headaches. Everything has subsided except the stiff neck. His neck mobility is very low and his head is tilting to the right with his chin to the left. Nothing came back on his x rays so his doctor prescribed physical therapy. Should I get a second opinion or just see what PT does? I have heard that it might be a good idea to see an ophthamologist.
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Answered by Dr. Diptanshu Das (23 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Second opinion needed urgently

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. A fever with neck stiffness could indicate meningitis (a very serious infection involving the brain and its coverings). You therefore need to visit a doctor and get it evaluated and investigated. This can be serious. If due to other causes, physical therapy can help, but not in meningitis. I would therefore insist on taking your child for a thorough evaluation and a second opinion.

I do not see the point of seeing an ophthalmologist at the moment. Does he have any specific eye-symptoms? Let me know and I would guide you accordingly.

Let me know if I could help further.

Regards
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
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Dr. Diptanshu Das

Pediatrician

Practicing since :2005

Answered : 3877 Questions

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Can Having A Cold Make Your Neck Hurt?

Brief Answer: Second opinion needed urgently Detailed Answer: Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic. I have gone carefully through your query and understand your concerns. A fever with neck stiffness could indicate meningitis (a very serious infection involving the brain and its coverings). You therefore need to visit a doctor and get it evaluated and investigated. This can be serious. If due to other causes, physical therapy can help, but not in meningitis. I would therefore insist on taking your child for a thorough evaluation and a second opinion. I do not see the point of seeing an ophthalmologist at the moment. Does he have any specific eye-symptoms? Let me know and I would guide you accordingly. Let me know if I could help further. Regards