Swelling, pain and pressure @ base of skull and stiff neck

I was told I had a sinus infection yesterday that came on pretty strong. Got some antibiotics for it from the doctor. Today the back of my head from behind my ears to the base of my skull is sore and feels puffy and either side of my neck hurts and is very stiff. I have never felt anything like this before. I do not seem to be running a high fever, but I have a low grade fever of about 100. I cannot seem to find a comfortable position. I feel awful and dizzy. At this point I don't think I am clear headed enough to drive. I have also had periodic bouts of nausea. My ears hurt too, but doc said other than some fluid in the right ear, they are not infected or anything. i also have a sore throat, doc attributed to drainage from sinus infection.

I keep stretching my neck to loosen it up, but it does not help. It feels like there is lots of pressure back there. Putting cold compress back there feels good as the area is very warm.

I also started seeing bright white or silver blobs out of the corner of my eyes a few weeks ago. Not sure if that could be related.

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. You seem to have contracted inflammation of the meninges from this acute respiratory tract infection through hematogenous spread or contiguous spread. The neck stiffness is quite typical of meningitis. The nausea, headaches and disorientation all point towards this possibility. You need to check with a neurologist at the earliest along with an attendant to take you to the hospital. You will need a cerebrospinal fluid examination to check the cells, bacteria and culture and sensitivity, MRI brain  after a detailed clinical evaluation. Prompt empirical therapy needs to be instituted. Take care.