Brain inflammation, caused by infection, can lead to serious complications such as organ failure and death. Symptoms include headache, fever, confusion, and seizures. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the inflammation, and can include anti-inflammatory and antiviral drugs, antibiotics, and rehabilitation. Diagnostic tests include spinal puncture and imaging. Early treatment is essential for a good prognosis.
Brain inflammation is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by swelling of the brain and, in some cases, meningeal irritation. Usually caused by an infection, this condition can trigger a variety of symptoms depending on the severity of the swelling. Encephalitis and meningitis are two major inflammatory brain conditions induced by infection. Treatment depends on the severity of your condition and the cause of the inflammation.
Viral infection is usually the genesis of brain inflammation. Aggressive viruses can originate in one part of the body only to later migrate to the brain, or they can attack the nervous system first. Common viruses that can induce brain swelling include herpetic conditions, such as Varicella-zoster and West Nile. Brain inflammation can also occur due to a parasitic or bacterial infection, such as one that can result from exposure to Toxoplasma gondii or Streptococcus pneumoniae.
Several diagnostic tests can be performed to confirm the presence of this condition. Typically, a spinal puncture will be performed to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis. Depending on the cause of the brain swelling, a person’s cerebrospinal fluid will show certain abnormalities or markers indicative of infection, such as an elevated white blood cell count and decreased glucose. A blood panel and imaging tests can also be used to assess antibody levels and measure the extent of brain swelling.
It is not uncommon for individuals with mild brain inflammation to remain asymptomatic, meaning they feel no obvious signs that something is wrong. Depending on the degree of inflammation, symptomatic individuals will generally present with a variety of signs that usually develop acutely. Sudden and pronounced worsening of your condition, including loss of consciousness and paralysis, is considered indicative of severe inflammation that requires immediate medical attention.
Initial swelling usually induces symptoms that include persistent headache, lethargy, and low-grade fever. Over time, an individual’s cognition may become impaired and he or she may experience confusion or display unusual mood swings. It is not uncommon for joint stiffness and widespread muscle weakness to also occur. In some cases, seizures, skin irritation and nausea may also occur.
If appropriate treatment is delayed or absent, inflammation can cause serious complications. Individuals may be left permanently physically disabled, go into shock, or experience widespread organ failure. Late-stage complications can lead to coma and death.
Viral-based inflammation generally involves giving fluids to prevent dehydration, getting enough bed rest, and using over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve discomfort. Severe or persistent infection may require hospitalization and intravenous administration of anti-inflammatory and antiviral drugs. Since some viruses demonstrate resistance to certain drugs, accurate identification of the responsible virus is essential for a good prognosis.
Individuals with bacterial-based brain inflammation can receive multifaceted treatment. A broad-spectrum oral antibiotic is typically used until a definitive bacterial identification is made. Acute inflammation often requires hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs to eradicate the infection and reduce swelling. Cases of severe swelling that have significantly impaired motor and cognitive functions may require subsequent rehabilitation, such as physical and speech therapy.
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