Cerebral edema is the swelling of the brain as a result of an injury.
The thick skull surrounding the brain prevents tissue from expanding when injured.
This pressure restricts blood circulation and deprives the brain of the oxygen it needs to function properly.
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A stroke is the most likely cause of cerebral edema, and it can be life-threatening.
This article covers the types, symptoms, and treatment of cerebral edema.
Cerebral edema of any throw in results in increased pressure on the brain.
Symptoms
The symptoms of cerebral edema depend on the bang out and cause of the edema.
Symptoms may include:
Blood pressure may increaseto compensate for the decreased blood flow in the brain.
This results in irregular breathing and a reduced heart rate.
Causes
A number of neurological injuries and conditions can cause cerebral edema.
These include:
Non-neurological conditions and certain environmental factors can also cause cerebral edema.
Diagnosis
A patients symptoms will determine what diagnostic tools a physician uses to examine a patient.
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to re-regulate blood flow and oxygen to the brain.
Treatments for cerebral edema will vary depending on the cause of the condition.
Cerebral edema brought on by a minor head injury may only require a few days of rest.
Frequent neurological checks are performed to measure any new or declining neurological changes.
Cerebral edema can have long-term residual effects that can last anywhere from weeks to months.
In some cases, neurological deficits may be permanent.
If left untreated, severe cerebral edema can cause brain and brainstem compression or could lead to death.
A Word From Verywell
Cerebral edema is a serious condition that requires medical treatment.
However, effective treatments and knowledgable medical professionals who are experienced in neurological care can help.
Stokum JA, Gerzanich V, Simard JM.Molecular pathophysiology of cerebral edema.J Cereb Blood Flow Metab.
2019;145(Pt B):230-246. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2018.08.004
