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Brain Swelling (Cerebral edema) - Causes & Symptoms

Edema, often known as brain swelling, is the body's reaction to different injuries. Overuse or infection are two possible causes. In most cases, swelling develops fast and can be easily managed with a combination of rest, ice, elevation, medication, or fluid drainage.

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Brain swelling is a serious condition medically known as cerebral edema and can be caused by various factors such as head injuries, strokes, infections, or certain medical conditions. Usually, its early-stage Symptoms may include severe headaches, nausea, confusion, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Prompt medical attention is crucial to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment, including medications to reduce swelling.

Sometimes, doctors may also perform surgery to relieve pressure or manage the underlying condition. Read on all possible causes and symptoms of brain swelling, as it can help you recognize early warning signs and seek timely medical care when necessary.

Brain Swelling Causes:

Brain edema also known as cerebral edema or brain swelling happens as a result of an impact on the brain or a brain injury. It may happen either to a sudden increase in blood pressure, any accident that causes brain injury, or due to any infectious disease like mumps, malaria, Reyes syndrome, typhus, and Kawasaki disease. In most cases, this swelling leads to disruption of the blood-brain barrier.

Brain swelling impairs the patient's cognitive and behavioral function, indirectly affecting the most important life skills and normal functioning of an individual. In severe cases, it may lead to severe brain damage and death. It is advised to seek immediate medical attention to save the patient's life.

Since the most common cause of concussion or brain swelling is falling, people with mobility challenges or physical handicaps related to the proper functioning of an individual like walking and balance, are most prone to brains swelling and should always be accommodated with a caregiver. Children are more prone to it since their sense of equilibrium is still developing and have poor balance.

Sportsmen and sportswomen who play high-impact sports are also prone to brain injuries and should always adhere to protective mechanisms like high-protection helmets to avoid such life-threatening conditions. Brain swelling has been associated with increased intracranial pressure. This increase is the major factor behind brain damage as mass destruction of brain tissues and blood vessels happens, which leads to impaired blood and oxygen flow to the brain.

Read about Superfoods to have for healthy brain.

Brain Swelling Symptoms:

There are the symptoms of brain swelling or Cerebral edema:

  • Any change in the conscious state
  • Acting funny or weird suddenly especially post any traumatic background around the brain
  • Confusion
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Numbness
  • Lack of Coordination
  • Headache that is persistent
  • Dizziness
  • Mood changes
  • Memory lapse
  • Changes in vision or sense of smell
  • Depression
  • Irritability

These above are the main signs of brain swelling or brain edema.

It is always advised to check with a neurologist if more than three or four symptoms are constantly observed and have started affecting the normal functioning of the individual. If you feel you have brain swelling symptoms, then in this blog you can read about head swelling causes, cerebral edema symptoms, and symptoms of head swelling.

Call +91-8010-994-994 and talk to Credi Medical Experts for FREE. Get assistance in choosing the right neurologist, compare treatment costs from various hospitals, and get support in managing other hospital processes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main causes of Cerebral edema(brain swelling)?

The main causes of brain swelling include traumatic brain injury, stroke, and liver failure.

What are the symptoms of Cerebral edema(brain swelling)?

The symptoms of brain swelling are Confusion, Nausea, vomiting, Numbness and dizziness.