Brain swelling is a severe condition that can result from a car crash and have serious lasting consequences. In this post, we will talk about the causes and risk factors of brain swelling, and what you can do to treat the condition.
Brain Swelling AKA Edema
Brain swelling is also known by the more medical term Edema. Swelling is a common bodily response to most physical trauma. If you sprain your ankle, it’s likely to swell, and over time will heal without much intervention. Brain swelling, however, should never be ignored as it can lead to death.
Swelling in the brain can be caused by any of the following factors:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries, such as those often sustained in car accidents.
- Strokes & Hemorrhages.
- Certain Infections such as meningitis and encephalitis can cause brain swelling.
- Brain Tumors.
The exact location of the swelling in the brain depends on the underlying cause.
Effects of Brain Swelling
When the brain swells, it puts excess pressure on the inside of your skull. This can, in turn, restrict the amount of oxygen and blood flow to your brain. And if the brain is deprived of blood or oxygen for too long, brain cells can become damaged or even die.
So how can you identify and treat brain swelling? A few of the most common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Pain in the neck
- Dizziness
- Memory loss
Treating swelling in the brain is complex and can involve a combination of IV fluids, oxygen therapy, medications to reduce swelling, physical therapy, and surgery.
Any person who sustains a head injury in a car accident should seek medical attention from an injury physician immediately after their accident. A doctor can properly diagnose the swelling and take the proper steps to avoid permanent damage or death.