Brain swelling, medically known as cerebral edema, is a serious condition where fluid builds up in the brain. This can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Several factors can trigger this dangerous swelling.
Causes of Brain Swelling (Cerebral Edema)
Several conditions can lead to brain swelling. These include:
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Head trauma: Injuries to the head, such as those resulting from falls, car accidents, or sports injuries, can cause brain swelling. [This is supported by multiple sources including the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and various articles on cerebral edema.] The trauma disrupts the blood-brain barrier, leading to fluid accumulation.
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Vascular ischemia (stroke): A stroke, caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, can also lead to swelling. The lack of oxygen and nutrients damages brain tissue, triggering an inflammatory response and fluid buildup.
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Intracranial lesions (tumors): Brain tumors and other lesions occupy space within the skull, increasing pressure and contributing to swelling. The growth itself can disrupt blood flow and cause inflammation.
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Obstructive hydrocephalus: This condition involves a blockage in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), causing pressure to build up within the brain and leading to swelling.
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Infections: Conditions like encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain, caused by viral or bacterial infections can cause brain swelling. [This is confirmed by the Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine sources.] The immune response to the infection contributes to the inflammation and swelling.
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Subdural abscess: A collection of pus in the brain (subdural empyema) from another infection. [As noted by WebMD.]
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Hyponatremia: Low sodium levels in the blood can also cause cerebral edema. [Supported by a research article in the PMC.] This disruption of electrolyte balance affects the movement of fluid into and out of brain cells.
The consequences of cerebral edema can be severe, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairment or even death if left untreated. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this condition.
