Brain Lesions: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Brain Lesions?
• What Causes Brain Lesions?
• What Are the Symptoms of a Brain Lesion?
• What Are the Different Types of Brain Lesions?
• How Are Brain Lesions Diagnosed?
• How Are Brain Lesions Treated?
• How Can I Find Out More About Brain Lesions?
• More

When you scrape your elbow, it leaves an area of inflamed skin, or a lesion. But what are lesions in the brain? And what causes them? How serious are brain lesions and how are they treated? Here is information about this confusing and unsettling health concern.

A lesion is an area of tissue that has been damaged through injury or disease. So a brain lesion is an area of injury or disease within the brain. While the definition sounds simple, understanding brain lesions can be complicated. That’s because there are many types of brain lesions. They can range from small to large, from few to many, from relatively harmless to life threatening.

Brain lesions can be caused by injury, infection, exposure to certain chemicals, problems with the immune system, and more. Typically, their cause is unknown.

Symptoms of a brain lesion vary depending on the type, location, and size of the lesion. Symptoms common to several types of brain lesions include the following:

• Headaches
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite
• Vision changes or eye pain
• Changes in mood, personality, behavior, mental ability, and concentration
• Memory loss or confusion
• Seizures
• Fever
• Difficulty moving

Although they share a common definition — injury or damage to tissue within the brain — brain lesions vary greatly. Here are some common brain lesions.

Abscesses: Brain abscesses are areas of infection, including pus and inflamed tissue. They are not common, but they are life threatening. Brain abscesses often occur after an infection, usually in a nearby area, such as an ear, sinus, or dental infection. They can also appear after injury or surgery to the skull. Read more about the causes of abscesses.

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): An AVM is a type of brain lesion that occurs during early development. Arteries and veins in the brain grow in a tangle and become connected by tube-like structures called fistulae. The arteries are not as strong as normal arteries. The veins are often enlarge because of the constant flow of blood directly from the arteries through the fistulae to the veins. These fragile vessels may rupture, leaking blood into the brain. In addition, the brain tissue may not receive enough blood to function properly. Damage to the brain may cause seizures as the first symptoms of an AVM.

Cerebral infarction: Infarction refers to death of tissue. A cerebral infarction, or stroke, is a brain lesion in which a cluster of brain cells die when they don’t get enough blood. Recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke.

Cerebral palsy: This type of brain lesion occurs when a baby is still in the mother’s womb, or during delivery. Cerebral palsy does not progress over time. The brain lesions affect the child’s ability to move, which can also make communication and related skills difficult. However, many children with cerebral palsy have normal intellectual functioning. Read more on the symptoms and types of cerebral palsy.

Multiple sclerosis (MS): With this condition, the immune system attacks and damages the nerve linings (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord. These lesions make it difficult for messages to be sent and received properly between the brain and the rest of the body. Learn more about the symptoms of MS.

Tumors: Tumors are clumps of cells that grow abnormally from normal tissue. Some tumors in the brain are noncancerous, or benign. Others are cancerous. They may start in the brain, or they may spread from elsewhere in the body (metastatic). They may grow quickly or they may remain stable. Get more information on signs and symptoms of a brain tumor.

The methods used to find and diagnose brain lesions depend on the symptoms. In many cases, CT and MRI imaging studies help pinpoint the location, size, and characteristics of the lesions. Blood and other lab tests may also be done to look for signs of infection.

Treatment depends on the type of brain lesion. The goals of treatment may be to provide a cure, relieve symptoms, or improve the quality or length of life. Common approaches for treating brain lesions include the following:

• “Wait and see;” if the lesion is not causing problems and is not growing, you may only need periodic checkups.
• Surgical removal of the lesion, if possible; new surgical techniques may make it possible to remove even hard-to-reach lesions.
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for lesions that are cancerous
• Medication to fight infections, such as antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs
• Medication to calm the immune system or otherwise change the immune system’s response
• Medication or other therapies to relieve symptoms associated with the brain lesion

Brain lesions take many forms, so diagnosing and treating them can be complex. That’s why it’s important to discuss individual questions about brain lesions with your doctor. Together, you can determine the best way to proceed in identifying, treating, and living with brain lesions.

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Brain Lesions: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Brain Lesions?
• What Causes Brain Lesions?
• What Are the Symptoms of a Brain Lesion?
• What Are the Different Types of Brain Lesions?
• How Are Brain Lesions Diagnosed?
• How Are Brain Lesions Treated?
• How Can I Find Out More About Brain Lesions?
• More

When you scrape your elbow, it leaves an area of inflamed skin, or a lesion. But what are lesions in the brain? And what causes them? How serious are brain lesions and how are they treated? Here is information about this confusing and unsettling health concern.

A lesion is an area of tissue that has been damaged through injury or disease. So a brain lesion is an area of injury or disease within the brain. While the definition sounds simple, understanding brain lesions can be complicated. That’s because there are many types of brain lesions. They can range from small to large, from few to many, from relatively harmless to life threatening.

Brain lesions can be caused by injury, infection, exposure to certain chemicals, problems with the immune system, and more. Typically, their cause is unknown.

Symptoms of a brain lesion vary depending on the type, location, and size of the lesion. Symptoms common to several types of brain lesions include the following:

• Headaches
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Nausea, vomiting, and lack of appetite
• Vision changes or eye pain
• Changes in mood, personality, behavior, mental ability, and concentration
• Memory loss or confusion
• Seizures
• Fever
• Difficulty moving

Although they share a common definition — injury or damage to tissue within the brain — brain lesions vary greatly. Here are some common brain lesions.

Abscesses: Brain abscesses are areas of infection, including pus and inflamed tissue. They are not common, but they are life threatening. Brain abscesses often occur after an infection, usually in a nearby area, such as an ear, sinus, or dental infection. They can also appear after injury or surgery to the skull. Read more about the causes of abscesses.

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs): An AVM is a type of brain lesion that occurs during early development. Arteries and veins in the brain grow in a tangle and become connected by tube-like structures called fistulae. The arteries are not as strong as normal arteries. The veins are often enlarge because of the constant flow of blood directly from the arteries through the fistulae to the veins. These fragile vessels may rupture, leaking blood into the brain. In addition, the brain tissue may not receive enough blood to function properly. Damage to the brain may cause seizures as the first symptoms of an AVM.

Cerebral infarction: Infarction refers to death of tissue. A cerebral infarction, or stroke, is a brain lesion in which a cluster of brain cells die when they don’t get enough blood. Recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke.

Cerebral palsy: This type of brain lesion occurs when a baby is still in the mother’s womb, or during delivery. Cerebral palsy does not progress over time. The brain lesions affect the child’s ability to move, which can also make communication and related skills difficult. However, many children with cerebral palsy have normal intellectual functioning. Read more on the symptoms and types of cerebral palsy.

Multiple sclerosis (MS): With this condition, the immune system attacks and damages the nerve linings (myelin) in the brain and spinal cord. These lesions make it difficult for messages to be sent and received properly between the brain and the rest of the body. Learn more about the symptoms of MS.

Tumors: Tumors are clumps of cells that grow abnormally from normal tissue. Some tumors in the brain are noncancerous, or benign. Others are cancerous. They may start in the brain, or they may spread from elsewhere in the body (metastatic). They may grow quickly or they may remain stable. Get more information on signs and symptoms of a brain tumor.

The methods used to find and diagnose brain lesions depend on the symptoms. In many cases, CT and MRI imaging studies help pinpoint the location, size, and characteristics of the lesions. Blood and other lab tests may also be done to look for signs of infection.

Treatment depends on the type of brain lesion. The goals of treatment may be to provide a cure, relieve symptoms, or improve the quality or length of life. Common approaches for treating brain lesions include the following:

• “Wait and see;” if the lesion is not causing problems and is not growing, you may only need periodic checkups.
• Surgical removal of the lesion, if possible; new surgical techniques may make it possible to remove even hard-to-reach lesions.
• Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for lesions that are cancerous
• Medication to fight infections, such as antibiotics or other antimicrobial drugs
• Medication to calm the immune system or otherwise change the immune system’s response
• Medication or other therapies to relieve symptoms associated with the brain lesion

Brain lesions take many forms, so diagnosing and treating them can be complex. That’s why it’s important to discuss individual questions about brain lesions with your doctor. Together, you can determine the best way to proceed in identifying, treating, and living with brain lesions.

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Organic brain damage: causes, symptoms, treatment

Contents

• 1 Organic brain damage: causes, symptoms and treatment
  • 1. 1 Organic brain damage
  • 1.2 Causes of brain damage
    • 1. 2.1 Head injury
    • 1.2.2 Hypoxia
    • 1.2.3 Stroke
    • 1.2.4 Neurodegenerative diseases
  • 1.3 Categories of organic brain lesions
  • 1.4 Symptoms of organic brain lesions
  • 1.5 Factors contributing to the development of organic brain lesions
  • 1.6 Diagnosis of organic brain lesions
    • 1.6.1 Medical history and physical examination
    • 1. 6.2 Instrumental diagnostic methods
    • 1.6.3 Electrophysiological diagnostic methods
  • 1.7 Organic brain lesions and their impact on mental health
  • 1.8 How to maintain a healthy brain?
    • 1.8.1 Proper nutrition
    • 1.8.2 Regular physical exercise
    • 1.8.3 Constant mental work
    • 1.8.4 Avoid bad habits
    • 1.8.5 Regular medical examinations

    90 019

    • 1.9 Treatment of organic brain lesions
    • 1.10 Related videos:
    • 1. 11 Q&A:
      • • 1.11.0.1 What are the causes of organic brain lesions?
        • 1.11.0.2 What are the symptoms associated with organic brain damage?
        • 1.11.0.3 How are organic brain lesions diagnosed?
        • 1.11.0.4 Is it possible to treat organic brain lesions?
        • 1.11.0.5 What are the preventive measures for organic brain damage?
        • 1.11.0.6 Can organic brain damage lead to disability?

  Organic lesions of the brain lead to various symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, weakness and paralysis. In this article, we will look at the main causes of such lesions and how to treat them so that you can quickly return to a healthy life.

  Organic lesions of the brain are a serious disease that can lead to significant disturbances in the functioning of the body. At the same time, in most cases, the disease manifests itself unexpectedly and without preliminary symptoms. This fact makes this topic one of the most relevant and important in medical science.

  Today’s science has a large database of harmful factors that can lead to organic brain damage. Among the main causes of the disease, in the first place are various accidents and head injuries, such as concussions, blows, falls. Also, such factors as drug addiction, alcoholism, infectious diseases and others can lead to the disease.

  Organic brain damage can present in many ways. It all depends on the location of the lesion, its degree and the strength of the impact of the harmful factor. However, some general symptoms can be identified: convulsions, a decrease in overall performance, memory impairment, loss of speech expressiveness, impaired coordination of movements, and many others.

  Despite the severity of the disease, modern medicine is at a high level and provides many ways to treat and rehabilitate the patient. These can be various medications, physiotherapy procedures, as well as psychological assistance and patient care.

  Organic brain lesions

  Organic brain lesions are various diseases that affect the functioning of the brain and can cause various symptoms.

  Symptoms of organic brain damage can manifest as headache, incoordination, seizures, changes in speech and thinking, loss of hearing or vision.

  Treatment of organic brain lesions depends on the cause and symptoms of the disease. This may be drug therapy, physical therapy, psychotherapy, or surgery.

  • For successful treatment of organic brain lesions, it is necessary to seek medical help in a timely manner;
  • Treatment may take several years and it is important to follow the doctor’s regimen and take medication;
  • It is important to remember that organic brain damage can have a serious impact on a person’s quality of life, so proper treatment and rehabilitation is the key to a quick and full recovery.

  Causes of brain damage

  Head injuries

  Head injuries are one of the common causes of organic brain damage. They can be caused by car accidents, falls, or hitting your head on a hard surface. The consequences of such injuries can be different, up to severe forms of brain damage.

  Hypoxia

  Hypoxia, i.e. lack of oxygen in the brain, can also be the cause of organic lesions. It can occur with suffocation, severe anemia, carbon monoxide poisoning and other factors, accompanied by respiratory and circulatory disorders.

  Stroke

  Stroke is another cause of organic brain damage. This is a disease that occurs when there is a violation of blood flow in the brain. Strokes are different: ischemic (associated with blockage of blood vessels), hemorrhagic (as a result of cerebral hemorrhage) and others.

  Neurodegenerative diseases

  Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, etc. can also lead to organic brain damage. They are characterized by progressive damage to nerve cells, which leads to impaired brain function and related symptoms.

  Categories of organic brain lesions

  Organic brain lesions can be of various nature and are classified into several categories:

  1. Congenital malformations: malformations of the brain associated with genetic disorders, such as microcephaly (underdeveloped brain) or hydrocephalus (excess fluid in the cerebral ventricles).
  2. Cerebrovascular diseases: occur in the background of various circulatory disorders in the brain, such as stroke, thrombosis, embolism.
  3. Non-inflammatory lesions: associated with various factors that affect the functioning of the brain, such as trauma, alcoholic encephalopathy, drug use, some types of dementia.
  4. Neurological diseases: associated with degeneration or damage to nerve cells, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or gangliodystrophy.

  The study of the categories of organic brain lesions allows you to more accurately determine the causes of diseases and choose effective methods of treatment for each specific case.

  Symptoms of organic brain lesions

  Organic brain lesions may present with different symptoms, depending on the location of the lesion. Some of them may be basic, that is, they may be the primary signs of the disease, while others may be separate or appear later.

  The main symptoms of organic brain lesions are nervous system dysfunctions: headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, impaired vision and hearing, memory impairment, etc. In addition, changes in behavior, character, and emotional sphere may occur.

  Other symptoms of include impaired motor function, including paresis and paralysis, convulsions, impaired coordination and balance. Sensory and speech disturbances, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, and depression may also be observed.

  Examples of symptoms of organic brain lesions by type of lesion Type of lesion Examples of symptoms0168 Stroke Speech disorders, sensory disorders, paresis and paralysis, impaired coordination and balance, mental status changes Brain tumor character, emotional sphere , changes in mental state

  If you or your loved ones are experiencing symptoms of organic brain damage, do not delay contacting a doctor. The sooner the diagnosis is established and treatment is started, the higher the chances of a complete restoration of the functions of the nervous system and a more favorable outcome of the disease.

  Factors contributing to the development of organic brain lesions

  The brain is one of the most complex organs of the human body, so its damage can occur for various reasons. There are a number of factors that increase the risk of developing organic brain lesions:

  • Head injuries – any mechanical impact on the head can lead to damage to the brain and cause organic damage;
  • Vascular and heart diseases – atherosclerosis, strokes, hypertension and other diseases of the cardiovascular system can lead to circulatory disorders in the brain and cause its organic damage;
  • Neurological diseases – some neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and parkinsonism, can cause organic brain damage;
  • Toxic effects – use of drugs, alcohol and other substances may be a factor contributing to the development of organic brain lesions;
  • Natural disasters – earthquakes, floods, fires and other natural disasters can cause head injuries and organic brain damage;

  All these factors can increase the risk of developing organic brain lesions, so it is important to take measures to prevent them and treat them promptly.

  Diagnosis of organic brain lesions

  Anamnesis and physical examination

  To start the diagnosis of organic brain lesions, the doctor conducts a detailed collection of information about the patient’s health status.

  The specialist then performs a mandatory physical examination of the patient. It includes checking heart rate, blood pressure, motor coordination, muscle strength, and other parameters that can give an idea of ​​a person’s health status.

  Instrumental diagnostic methods

  If the doctor detects signs of organic brain lesions at the stage of anamnesis and physical examination, then it is necessary to conduct a clear diagnosis. To do this, a medical specialist can use a number of instrumental diagnostic methods.

  CT and MRI are the most common methods that evaluate brain tissue and can detect nodules and tumors. Another method – positron emission tomography, allows you to identify areas with increased metabolism and hypoxia.

  X-rays are not widely used to look for organic brain lesions, but they can be used to look for other possible causes of symptoms.

  Electrophysiological diagnostic methods

  Electrophysiological diagnostic methods can also be used to detect organic brain lesions.

  Electroencephalography evaluates the electrical activity of the brain, Electromyography – checks the state of muscle tissue.

  These methods can be especially useful when you need to really pinpoint the problem and understand the causes of the problems.

  Organic brain lesions and their impact on mental health

  Organic brain lesions are changes in the structure and function of the brain due to various causes, such as trauma, infection, tumors, and circulatory disorders. Such changes can lead to various disorders in the body, including mental disorders.

  One of the most common manifestations of organic brain damage is a change in mental health. Patients may experience symptoms such as depression, anxiety, insomnia, changes in appetite, and emotional instability.

  After a brain injury, it is possible to develop post-traumatic stress disorder , which is characterized by recurring strong emotional reactions in connection with certain memories of a past event. This can lead to excessive anxiety, increased irritability, recurring nightmares, and fear associated with such events.

  The impact of organic brain damage on mental health is not limited to violent events. Any change in brain function can lead to changes in mood and behavior, which in turn can lead to other mental disorders.

  While some changes in mental health may occur quickly, others may appear slowly. In any case, if you or someone close to you is experiencing any symptoms associated with mental health changes, you should see a specialist for evaluation and treatment.

  How to maintain a healthy brain?

  Proper nutrition

  Proper nutrition is essential to maintaining brain health. The diet should include vegetables, fruits, fish, nuts and dried fruits. You should not eat too much animal fats, sweets and fast carbohydrates, as this can lead to the development of obesity, and in turn, increases the risk of various diseases, including organic brain damage.

  Regular exercise

  Regular exercise will help keep your brain healthy. Exercise, such as dancing, walking, swimming or yoga, improves blood circulation and metabolism, and helps manage stress, which is also very important for maintaining brain health.

  Constant mental work

  Reading, games, crossword puzzles, solving math problems and other mental exercises help keep the brain in shape. Mental work helps to improve memory, thinking, attention and concentration. It is important that these exercises are not too easy, it is necessary to constantly increase the level of difficulty of the tasks.

  Avoid bad habits

  Smoking, alcohol and drugs affect brain health and can cause various brain diseases. These habits must be avoided to maintain brain health.

  Regular medical check-ups

  Regular medical check-ups can help detect brain problems at the very beginning of their development. A check-up of the brain can help control the risk of the disease, as well as prevent its development.

  Follow these simple guidelines and you will be able to maintain a healthy brain for many years to come.

  Treatment of organic brain damage

  Organic brain damage can be caused by various causes such as trauma, stroke, infections and tumors. Treatment of organic brain lesions depends on the cause and severity of the disease.

  Drug therapy may include antibiotics to treat infections, drugs to improve circulation to the brain, and anti-inflammatories to reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help improve coordination, motor skills, and speech. Surgical methods may be necessary in case of tumors or hemorrhages in the brain.

  It is important to remember that the treatment of organic brain lesions can be lengthy and require patience and perseverance. Professionals need to work with patients and their loved ones to determine the most effective treatment and rehabilitation methods, as well as provide patients with support and understanding during and after therapy.

  Related videos:

  Q&A:

  What are the causes of organic brain lesions?

  Organic brain damage can occur due to infectious diseases, head injuries, inflammatory processes in the brain, diseases of the circulatory system, and also due to metabolic disorders.

  What are the symptoms associated with organic brain damage?

  Symptoms of organic brain damage may vary depending on the specific disease, but the most common manifestations are headache, nausea, vomiting, incoordination, depression, exhaustion, memory loss, speech disturbance, convulsions.

  How are organic brain lesions diagnosed?

  To diagnose organic brain lesions, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging of the head, examination of the nervous system, blood and urine tests, electroencephalography are performed.

  Is it possible to treat organic brain lesions?

  Yes, it is possible to treat organic brain lesions. Treatment may include medication, physical therapy, treatment of eating disorders and nutritional supplements, rehabilitation measures, and surgery in severe cases.

  What measures are there to prevent organic brain damage?

  Measures to prevent organic brain damage include: prevention of traumatic head injuries, treatment of existing diseases in a timely manner, a healthy lifestyle, eating healthy food and avoiding bad habits.

  Can organic brain damage lead to disability?

  In some cases, especially if the disease has been advanced and has led to severe brain damage, organic brain damage can lead to disability. However, in most cases, correct and timely treatment helps to avoid serious consequences.

  Organic brain damage in children: treatment Sochi

  The brain is, without understatement, the most complex and most important organ in our body, it is here that all the information and actions that our body performs are processed.

  The concept of “organic brain damage in children” includes a whole range of disorders associated with structural pathological changes in the brain tissues.

  They can be either diffuse (eg due to encephalopathy) or localized (due to tumor or brain injury).

  Causes of organic brain lesions

  Brain damage can be congenital or acquired.

  Congenital pathologies develop if during pregnancy a woman:

  • used alcohol, drugs or smoked
  • had the flu, acute respiratory viral infections
  • took some drugs that have a toxic effect
  • experienced severe stress.

  The same group of causes includes injuries during childbirth, improper delivery, asphyxia, fetal hypoxia, and a hereditary factor.

  Acquired causes of organic brain damage in a child include: stroke, traumatic brain injury, past infectious diseases (meningitis, encephalitis, abscess).

  Symptoms of organic brain damage in children

  Symptoms of organic brain damage largely depend on which part of the brain is localized.

  The main sign can be considered a psycho-organic syndrome, which manifests itself in such areas as memory, intelligence, speech development. Children with this diagnosis have problems with remembering information, they constantly experience weakness, headaches, dizziness, are prone to depression, and are irritable.

  Delayed speech and intellectual development is another symptom of organic brain damage, which is characterized by impaired cognitive activity.

  This condition is acquired. The functions of the child’s damaged brain begin to disintegrate. Sometimes developmental delay is so severe that the child cannot learn to take care of himself.