What are the effects of brain lesions? Discover the causes, symptoms, types, and treatment options for brain lesions in this comprehensive guide.

Understanding Brain Lesions

Brain lesions are any area of damaged or abnormal tissue within the brain. These lesions can be caused by a variety of factors, including tumors, strokes, injuries, infections, and degenerative diseases. While all brain tumors are considered brain lesions, not all brain lesions are tumors. Other types of brain lesions include those caused by stroke, traumatic brain injury, encephalitis, and arteriovenous malformations.

Causes of Brain Lesions

Brain lesions can have a range of underlying causes, including:

• Brain Tumors: Both cancerous (malignant) and noncancerous (benign) brain tumors can lead to the formation of brain lesions.
• Stroke: Ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes can cause lesions by damaging brain tissue due to interrupted blood flow.
• Traumatic Brain Injury: Head injuries, such as those sustained in a car accident or a fall, can lead to the development of brain lesions.
• Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections of the brain, such as encephalitis, can result in brain lesions.
• Degenerative Diseases: Conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis can cause lesions as the brain tissue degenerates over time.

Symptoms of Brain Lesions

The symptoms of a brain lesion will depend on the location and size of the lesion, as well as the underlying cause. Common symptoms of brain lesions include:

• Headaches
• Seizures
• Cognitive impairments, such as memory loss or difficulty concentrating
• Motor function problems, such as weakness, numbness, or lack of coordination
• Vision problems
• Changes in personality or behavior

Types of Brain Lesions

There are several different types of brain lesions, including:

1. Tumors: Both benign and malignant brain tumors can lead to the formation of brain lesions.
2. Strokes: Ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes can cause lesions by damaging brain tissue.
3. Traumatic Brain Injuries: Head injuries can result in the development of brain lesions.
4. Infections: Viral, bacterial, or fungal infections of the brain, such as encephalitis, can lead to brain lesions.
5. Degenerative Diseases: Conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis can cause lesions as the brain tissue degenerates over time.

Diagnosing Brain Lesions

Diagnosing brain lesions typically involves a combination of imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans, as well as a physical examination and neurological assessment. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to determine the specific type of lesion.

Treating Brain Lesions

The treatment for brain lesions will depend on the underlying cause and the location and size of the lesion. Some common treatment options include:

• Surgery: For brain tumors or other types of lesions, surgery may be used to remove or debulk the lesion.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy can be used to shrink or destroy brain lesions, particularly in cases where surgery is not an option.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used to treat malignant brain tumors or lesions caused by certain types of cancer.
• Medication: Medications may be used to manage symptoms, such as seizures or headaches, or to address the underlying cause of the lesion.
• Rehabilitation: For lesions that cause functional impairments, rehabilitation therapy, such as physical, occupational, or speech therapy, may be recommended.

Prognosis for Brain Lesions

The prognosis for individuals with brain lesions can vary widely, depending on the underlying cause, the size and location of the lesion, and the individual’s overall health and response to treatment. Some brain lesions may be treatable and allow for a good recovery, while others, particularly malignant brain tumors, can be life-threatening. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are important for managing brain lesions and optimizing long-term outcomes.

Brain Tumors and Brain Cancer

There are over 120 brain tumor types, based on the brain tissues they affect. Not all brain tumors are brain cancer, but even benign (or noncancerous) tumors can be dangerous because of their size or location.

What is a brain tumor? | What is brain cancer? | Symptoms | Causes | Locations and Types | Brain Tumors in Children | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prognosis

What is a brain tumor?

A brain tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. The anatomy of the brain is very complex, with different parts responsible for different nervous system functions. Brain tumors can develop in any part of the brain or skull, including its protective lining, the underside of the brain (skull base), the brainstem, the sinuses and the nasal cavity, and many other areas. There are more than 120 different types of tumors that can develop in the brain, depending on what tissue they arise from.

How common are brain tumors, and are they dangerous?

In the United States, brain and nervous system tumors affect about 30 adults out of 100,000. Brain tumors are dangerous because they can put pressure on healthy parts of the brain or spread into those areas. Some brain tumors can also be cancerous or become cancerous. They can cause problems if they block the flow of fluid around the brain, which can lead to an increase in pressure inside the skull. Some types of tumors can spread through the spinal fluid to distant areas of the brain or the spine.

Related Video

Brain Tumors: Frequently Asked Questions | Jon Weingart, M.D.

How is a tumor different from a brain lesion?

A brain tumor is a specific type of brain lesion. A lesion describes any area of damaged tissue. All tumors are lesions, but not all lesions are tumors. Other brain lesions can be caused by stroke, injury, encephalitis and arteriovenous malformation.

Brain Tumor vs. Brain Cancer

All brain cancers are tumors, but not all brain tumors are cancerous. Noncancerous brain tumors are called benign brain tumors.

Benign brain tumors typically grow slowly, have distinct borders and rarely spread. Benign tumors can still be dangerous. They can damage and compress parts of the brain, causing severe dysfunction. Benign brain tumors located in a vital area of the brain can be life-threatening. Very rarely, a benign tumor can become malignant. Examples of typically benign tumors include meningioma, vestibular schwannoma and pituitary adenoma.

Malignant brain tumors are cancerous. They typically grow rapidly and invade surrounding healthy brain structures. Brain cancer can be life-threatening due to the changes it causes to the vital structures of the brain. Some examples of malignant tumors that originate in or near the brain include olfactory neuroblastoma, chondrosarcoma and medulloblastoma.

Primary vs. Metastatic Brain Tumors

Primary brain tumors are tumors that start in the brain. Examples of tumors that most often originate in the brain include meningioma and glioma. Very rarely, these tumors can break away and spread to other parts of the brain and spinal cord. More commonly, tumors spread to the brain from other parts of the body.

Metastatic brain tumors, also called secondary brain tumors, are malignant tumors that originate as cancer elsewhere in the body and then metastasize (spread) to the brain. Metastatic brain tumors are about four times more common than primary brain tumors. They can grow rapidly, crowding or invading nearby brain tissue.

Common cancers that can spread to the brain are:

• Breast cancer
• Colon cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Lung cancer
• Skin cancer (melanoma)

Brain Tumor Locations

Brain tumors can form in any part of the brain, but there are certain regions where specific tumors form:

• Meningiomas form in the meninges, the protective lining of the brain.
• Pituitary tumors develop in the pituitary gland.
• Medulloblastoma tumors arise from the cerebellum or brainstem.
• Skull base tumors grow on the underside of the brain, called the skull base.

Other brain tumors are described by the kinds of cells they are made of. For instance, gliomas are composed of glial cells.

Learn more about these and other brain tumor types.

Brain Tumors in Children

Brain tumors are the most common solid tumor in children and adolescents, affecting about 5,000 children in the U.S. each year. Several different types of brain tumors can occur in children, including astrocytomas (e.g., glioblastoma multiforme), gliomas, ependymomas and medulloblastomas.

Learn more about brain tumors in children.

Brain Tumor Symptoms

Different parts of the brain control different functions, so brain tumor symptoms will vary depending on the tumor’s location. For example, a brain tumor located in the cerebellum at the back of the head may cause trouble with movement, walking, balance and coordination. If the tumor affects the optic pathway, which is responsible for sight, vision changes may occur.

The tumor’s size and how fast it’s growing also affect which symptoms a person will experience.

In general, the most common symptoms of a brain tumor may include:

• Headaches
• Seizures or convulsions
• Difficulty thinking, speaking or finding words
• Personality or behavior changes
• Weakness, numbness or paralysis in one part or one side of the body
• Loss of balance, dizziness or unsteadiness
• Loss of hearing
• Vision changes
• Confusion and disorientation
• Memory loss

Can you have a brain tumor with no symptoms?

Brain tumors don’t always cause symptoms. In fact, the most common brain tumor in adults, meningioma, often grows so slowly that it goes unnoticed. Tumors may not start causing symptoms until they become large enough to interfere with healthy tissues inside the brain.

Related Video

Convexity Meningioma | A Hollywood Stuntwoman’s Story

Brain Tumor Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors don’t know why some cells begin to form into tumor cells. It may have something to do with a person’s genes or his or her environment, or both. Some potential brain tumor causes and risk factors may include:

• Cancers that spread from other parts of the body
• Certain genetic conditions that predispose a person to overproduction of certain cells
• Exposure to some forms of radiation

Are brain tumors hereditary?

Genetics are to blame for a small number (fewer than 5%) of brain tumors. Some inherited conditions put individuals at greater risk of developing tumors, including:

• Neurofibromatosis
• Von Hippel-Lindau disease
• Li-Fraumeni syndrome
• Familial adenomatous polyposis
• Lynch syndrome
• Basal cell nevus syndrome (Gorlin syndrome)
• Tuberous sclerosis
• Cowden syndrome

Find a Doctor

Brain Tumor Diagnosis

Diagnosing a brain tumor usually involves a neurological exam, brain scans and a biopsy, if it can be done safely.

• A neurological exam may include a variety of tests to evaluate neurological functions such as balance, hearing, vision and reflexes.
• A variety of imaging techniques, including CT (or CAT) scan, MRI, occasionally an angiogram or X-rays can be used to identify the tumor, pinpoint its location and/or assess the function of your brain.
• If doctors cannot safely perform a biopsy (tissue sample collection and analysis), they will diagnose the brain tumor and plan the treatment based on other test results. If a biopsy was possible, doctors can use it to determine the tumor grade (how aggressive it is), as well as study the tumor tissue for any biomarkers that can help personalize the treatment approach.

Depending on your symptoms, doctors may also perform these tests to help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions:

• Lumbar puncture to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid and see if it contains traces of the tumor cells.
• Evoked potentials studies to measure electrical activity in the nerves and/or electroencephalography (EEG) to measure electrical activity in the brain.
• Neurocognitive assessment to evaluate any changes in cognition and well-being.
• Neuro-ophthalmological examination to assess for signs of tumor affecting the eyes.
• Endocrinological evaluation to assess hormone function.

Proper diagnosis is essential in determining the best course of treatment.

Brain Tumor Grading

The grade of a brain tumor defines how serious it is. Using the biopsy sample, a pathologist will examine the tumor under a microscope to determine its grade. Brain tumor grading is a category system that describes the brain tumor cells and indicates how likely the tumor is to grow and spread.

Brain tumor grading uses a scale from 1 (least aggressive) to 4 (most aggressive).

(World Health Organization tumor grading system)

Grade I brain tumor

• Benign (noncancerous)
• Slow-growing
• Cells look almost normal under a microscope
• Usually associated with long-term survival
• Rare in adults

Grade II brain tumor

• Relatively slow-growing
• Sometimes spreads to nearby normal tissue and comes back (recurs)
• Cells look slightly abnormal under a microscope
• Sometimes comes back as a higher grade tumor

Grade III brain tumor

• Malignant (cancerous)
• Actively reproduces abnormal cells
• Tumor spreads into nearby normal parts of the brain
• Cells look abnormal under a microscope
• Tends to come back, often as a higher grade tumor

Grade IV brain tumor

• Malignant
• Most aggressive
• Grows fast
• Easily spreads into nearby normal parts of the brain
• Actively reproduces abnormal cells
• Cells look very abnormal under a microscope
• Tumor forms new blood vessels to maintain rapid growth
• Tumors have areas of dead cells in their center (called necrosis)

A changing diagnosis

The grade of a brain tumor might change, usually to a higher grade, often without a cause. It’s also possible that the biopsy sample might not represent the entire tumor, giving an inaccurate initial data for the grade.

A change from a low-grade tumor to a high-grade tumor happens more often in adults than in children.

Brain Tumor Staging

Staging refers to how far a tumor has spread. If a tumor has migrated to other parts of the body, it has metastasized. Staging is often done for other types of tumors but not primary brain tumors. This is because brain tumors are unlikely to spread beyond the nervous system.

Conversely, other types of tumors (e.g., lung cancer) can spread to the brain. Tumors that have spread to the brain are advanced stage.

What does the size of a brain tumor mean?

Because larger tumors are more likely to interfere with normal brain function, they more often cause symptoms and complications.

Brain Tumor Treatment

The most common treatment for brain tumors is surgery. For some tumors, surgical removal and continued monitoring may be the only treatment needed. Common surgical approaches to brain tumor removal include craniotomy, neuroendoscopy, laser ablation and laser interstitial thermal therapy.

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be used to treat brain cancer by helping shrink the tumor, slowing down its growth and/or preventing it from coming back. External beam radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery and proton therapy are some of the radiation treatments for brain tumor.

Learn more about these and other brain tumor treatment options.

The Johns Hopkins Brain Tumor Center

The Johns Hopkins Comprehensive Brain Tumor Center is one of the largest brain tumor treatment and research centers in the world. We tailor each patient’s treatment using an array of advanced approaches, including emerging treatments such as tumor-treating fields and MRI-guided laser ablation.

Learn more about the brain tumor center

Brain Tumor Prognosis

Brain tumor can be a frightening diagnosis. It’s important to partner with a medical team you trust to determine the best next steps, whether it’s observation, surgery, radiation therapy or another treatment. How successful your personal outcome will be depends on many factors, including:

• The type of brain tumor, its size, grade and location
• Whether the tumor has spread within the brain or to other parts of the body
• Your age and overall health
• How long you had symptoms before you were diagnosed with a brain tumor
• How much the brain tumor affects your ability to function
• Your treatment preferences
• The expertise of your treatment team

There is no projected survival rate for those diagnosed with a brain tumor, as individual circumstances play a big role. For example, some malignant tumors can be successfully controlled by radiation therapy. Others, because of their location, may be life-threatening even if they are benign. Doctors have to look at thousands of patients with similar characteristics to see a trend in how certain tumors progress and how different treatments affect them.

Your overall outlook and prognosis are likely to change as you undergo various treatments. If you have surgery, how much of the tumor the neurosurgeon can remove will impact what will happen next. Other brain tumor treatments will determine future steps as well.

Related Topics

Signs & Symptoms

When brain tumors are very small, some people may not experience any symptoms or the symptoms are so minimal they don’t notice them.

As brain tumors grow, signs and symptoms can vary and largely depend on the tumor’s location within the brain, its size, and how quickly it grows.

Some of the more common signs and symptoms caused by brain tumors include the following:

• Headaches
• Seizures 
• Difficulty thinking, speaking, or finding words
• Changes in personality or behavior
• Weakness, numbness, or loss of movement in one part or one side of the body
• Difficulty with balance or dizziness
• Sensory changes like difficulty hearing, difficulty seeing, or loss of smell
• Memory loss
• Confusion in everyday matters or disorientation
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or muscle weakness

Other possible signs and symptoms can include abnormal eye movements, trouble swallowing, trouble walking, weakness or drooping of one side of the face, loss of appetite or weight loss, and slurred speech.

If you are experiencing any new, persistent, or concerning symptoms or you suspect you may have a brain tumor, please talk to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

If you suddenly experience any of the following symptoms, please call 911:

• Numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg
• Trouble speaking or understanding speech
• Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
• Difficulty with walking, balance, or dizziness
• Worst headache of your life

While seizures may not require emergency medical attention, call 911 if one or more of the below are true:

• You have never experienced a seizure before
• The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
• Another seizure soon follows the first one
• A person has difficulty breathing or walking after the seizure
• A person is having a seizure in water
• The person has another health condition like diabetes, heart disease, or pregnancy

Areas of the Brain

Some people with brain tumors experience general symptoms like headaches, seizures, and fatigue. Other symptoms can be more specific to the location of the tumor in the brain.

Brain tumors can damage healthy tissue, press on healthy brain tissue, or cause pressure in the brain and negatively impact certain functions.

If you are diagnosed with a brain tumor, ask your provider where it is located in the brain to better prepare for possible symptoms and safety concerns.

Learn More About the Areas of the Brain

The cerebrum is the uppermost and largest part of the brain. It processes sensation, generates thought, and controls conscious activity. The cerebrum has two sides — the right and the left hemispheres that each control the opposite side of the body — and each side is divided into four lobes with specific functions: the frontal lobe, the parietal lobe, the temporal lobe, and the occipital lobe.

The frontal lobe is the part of the cerebrum that is located in the front of the brain. It is responsible for higher executive functions like regulating emotions, planning, reasoning, and problem-solving.  

Symptoms of a tumor in the frontal lobe can include:

• Changes in personality, mood, or behavior
• Lack of inhibition or decreased impulse control
• Difficulty concentrating
• Agitation or aggression
• Sluggishness
• Weakness in one side of the body
• Loss of smell
• Trouble speaking (Broca’s area)

The parietal lobe is the part of the cerebrum that is located behind the frontal lobe. It is responsible for processing and interpreting sensory information like touch, temperature, pressure, and pain. It is also involved in telling the right from the left, navigation, language, and reading.

Symptoms of a tumor in the parietal lobe can include:

• Numbness or weakness in one side of the body
• Difficulty with spatial awareness and judging distances
• Loss of coordination including hand-eye coordination
• Trouble speaking, understanding words, reading, or writing

The temporal lobe is part of the cerebrum that is located on the side of the brain near the ears. It is responsible for hearing and understanding what we’re hearing, visual processing like recognizing people’s faces, and memory.

Symptoms of a tumor in the temporal lobe can include:

• Numbness or weakness in one side of the body
• Difficulty hearing or speaking
• Correctly identifying emotions in others
• Memory loss
• Strange sensations or smells
• Seizures

The occipital lobe is part of the cerebrum that is located at the back of the brain. It is responsible for sight and activities like reading and recognizing colors.

Symptoms of a tumor in the occipital lobe can include:

• Loss of vision
• Difficulty identifying objects

There are five additional areas that can be affected by the location of the tumor.

The cerebellum is located at the back part of the brain near the bottom of the head. It is mainly responsible for balance, coordination, movement, and fine motor skills.

Symptoms of a tumor in the cerebellum can include:

• Difficulty walking (ataxia)
• Uncoordinated muscle movements
• Loss of fine motor skills
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Dizziness or loss of balance

The brain stem is the part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord and the cerebellum. It controls involuntary and essential functions such as breathing and the beating of the heart.

Symptoms of a tumor in the brain stem can include:

• Seizures
• Unsteadiness and difficulty walking
• Loss of movement in the muscles in the face
• Difficulty speaking
• Difficulty swallowing
• Double vision
• Changes in breathing

The spinal cord is a long column of nerve tissue that begins at the end of the brain stem and down the center of the spine. It allows for movement, feeling sensation, and control of different functions in the body.

Tumors in the spinal cord can impact the nerves, blood vessels, and bones of the spine. Symptoms can include:

• Local pain at the site of the tumor
• Back pain that radiates to other parts of the body
• Loss of sensitivity to pain, heat, or cold
• Loss of bladder or bowel function (incontinence)
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of sensation or muscle weakness in the arms or legs

The meninges are three layers of tissue that surround and protect the brain and the spinal cord. The meninges provide a support system and protect the nervous system from injury.

Symptoms of a tumor of the meninges can include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in vision or bulging of the eyes
• Loss of smell
• Hearing loss
• Seizures
• Overactive reflexes
• Muscle weakness in certain areas of the body
• Paralysis in certain areas of the body

While not technically part of the brain, the pituitary gland is located at the base of the brain. It secretes hormones and helps regulate many processes in the body like growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Tumors in the pituitary gland can cause symptoms that include:

• Headache
• Vision loss
• Increase or decrease in hormone production that lead to changes like weight loss or gain, sexual dysfunction, feeling cold, excessive sweating, and more

Additional Resources

Managing Symptoms through Palliative Care

National Brain Tumor Society’s Symptom Tracker

National Cancer Institute’s My STORI^TM Symptom Tracking App

American Society of Clinical Oncology’s Cancer.Net Mobile App

types, causes, symptoms and treatment

Contents

• 1 Brain damage: causes, effects and treatments
  • 1.1 Brain damage: what is it?
    • 1.1.1 Understanding brain damage
    • 1.1.2 Causes of brain damage
    • 1.1.3 Symptoms of brain damage
    • 1.1.4 Treatment of brain damage
  • 1. 2 Types of brain damage 9000 4
  • 1.2.1 Congenital lesions of the brain
  • 1.2.2 Acquired brain lesions
• 1.3 How is a brain injury diagnosed?
  • 1.3.1 Neurological examination
  • 1.3.2 Brain examinations
  • 1.3.3 Other instrumental examinations
• 1.4 Importance of first aid in case of brain injury
  • 1.4.1 What is brain damage?
  • 1.4.2 Why is first aid important for brain damage?
  • 1.4.3 How to provide first aid for brain damage?
  • 1.4.4 When should I see a doctor?
• 1.5 Main symptoms of brain damage
  • 1.5.1 Physical manifestations
  • 1.5.2 Behavioral and mental changes
  • 1.5.3 Neurological disorders

90 005 1.6 Treatment of brain damage: modern methods

• 1.6.1 Drug treatment
• 1.6.2 Physiotherapy
• 1.6.3 Surgery
• 1.7 How to protect your brain from damage?
• 1. 8 Rehabilitation after brain injury
  • 1.8.1 Recovery of life skills
  • 1.8.2 Medications
  • 1.8.3 Rehabilitation programs
• 1.9 Ways to restore brain activity
  • 1.9.1 Early rehabilitation
  • 1.9.2 Corrective exercises
  • 1.9.3 Medical treatment
  • 1.9.4 Personalized approach
  • 1.9.5 Support of family and friends
• 1.10 Psychological consequences of brain injury
• 1.11 Related videos:
• 1.12 Q&A:
  • • 1.12.0.1 What are the main causes of brain damage?
    • 1.12.0.2 What symptoms may indicate brain damage?
    • 1.12.0.3 How is a brain injury diagnosed?
    • 1.12.0.4 How is brain damage treated?
    • 1.12.0.5 What are the possible complications of brain damage?
    • 1.12.0.6 Can brain damage be prevented?

Brain damage is a serious disease that is associated with impaired brain function. The article discusses the main causes of brain damage, symptoms and treatment. Learn how to protect your brain and prevent this disease from occurring.

The brain is the main organ of our body, controlling all its functions. It helps us to think, feel, perceive information and engage in various activities. However, despite its importance, the brain is subject to various diseases and lesions.

Brain damage is a condition in which the brain is damaged as a result of an event such as a stroke, injury, tumor, or infection. Each of these factors can lead to a disruption in the normal functioning of the brain and, as a result, to serious consequences.

One of the key points in the treatment of brain damage is timely access to a doctor and diagnosis at an early stage of the disease, which increases the chances of recovery and reduces the risk of negative consequences.

In the article we will consider the main types of brain damage, their causes, signs and methods of treatment, as well as analyze what measures can be taken to prevent these diseases.

Brain damage: what is it?

The concept of brain damage

Brain damage is a condition where the brain, perhaps the most complex organ in our body, faces various diseases, injuries and other dangers that can lead to a change in its functioning. As a result, the brain cannot perform its functions and this entails global problems in the work of the whole organism.

Causes of brain damage

Brain damage can be caused by a variety of causes, including trauma, bleeding, infection, tumors, and other diseases. Each of these causes can lead to different symptoms, which can be temporary or permanent, mild or severe, but all of them can cause serious damage to health.

Symptoms of brain damage

Symptoms of brain damage can be very varied and depend on the type and degree of damage. They can include headache, vomiting, dizziness, loss of consciousness, speech and motor coordination disorders, convulsions, and many others. Each type of brain damage has its own set of symptoms, the presence of which should be familiar to every person in order to consult a doctor in a timely manner.

Treatment of brain damage

Treatment of brain damage may depend on the type and extent of the damage, as well as the age and general health of the patient. It may include life-saving measures, such as eliminating a life-threatening situation, as well as rehabilitation measures aimed at restoring damaged brain functions. Treatment of brain damage should be carried out under the supervision of professional doctors and requires an individual approach in order to achieve the best result.

Types of brain damage

The brain is one of the most complex and vulnerable organs in our body. It is responsible for such important functions as thinking, movement, vision, hearing, as well as for controlling the organs and systems of our body. Unfortunately, the brain can be subject to various lesions due to both congenital and acquired factors.

Congenital brain lesions

• Cerebral palsy (cerebral palsy) – several forms of the birth of the connection of nerves and muscles, caused by brain damage in the last months of pregnancy or in the first years of a child’s life.
• Microcephaly – small head due to abnormal development of the brain.
• Aniccephaly – the absence of the brain in the fetus.

Acquired brain damage

• Stroke is the most common cause of brain damage. It occurs due to a violation of the blood supply to the brain and can lead to paralysis, changes in memory and thinking, speech.
• Head Trauma – Brain damage can result from head trauma, such as from a car accident or a fall. There are concussion, subarachnoid hemorrhage, hematomas, etc.
• Neurodegenerative diseases – for example, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, etc.

Each form of brain damage, depending on the complexity and depth, has its own effect on the body and can lead to serious consequences. However, the presence of brain damage does not always mean a complete limitation, not only for patients, but also for their loved ones. Systemic solutions and therapeutic measures can reduce the negative impact of lesions on the general condition of the body and increase the standard of living.

How is a brain injury diagnosed?

brain lesions can be caused by a variety of causes such as trauma, stroke, tumors, infections or hereditary diseases. Diagnosis of brain damage may involve various methods.

Neurological examination

A neurologist examines a patient, reviews their medical and life history, asks questions about symptoms, and attempts to determine the nature and extent of brain damage.

Brain examinations

For further diagnosis of brain damage, various examinations are prescribed, such as:

• Electroencephalography (EEG) – measurement of the electrical activity of the brain;
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – creating three-dimensional images of the brain;
• Computed tomography (CT) – X-ray examination of the brain using a computer;
• Positron emission tomography (PET) – measurement of glucose metabolism in the brain and determination of functional changes.

Other instrumental research methods

In addition to the above methods, the following methods can be used to diagnose brain damage:

• Ultrasound examination of the brain – measurement of blood flow inside the skull;
• Angiography – X-ray examination of cerebral vessels;
• CSF examination – analysis of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

All of the listed methods have their advantages and disadvantages, in addition, the choice of method depends on the type of brain damage.

Importance of first aid in case of brain damage

What is brain damage?

Brain damage is a disruption in the normal functioning of the brain caused by various factors. This could be a head injury, stroke, hemorrhage, tumor or other pathology

Why is first aid important for brain damage?

First aid for brain damage is measures that help save the life and health of the victim. A quick response and correct action can significantly reduce the risk of death or serious complications such as loss of vision or hearing, paralysis, and impaired speech or memory.

How to provide first aid for brain damage?

1. Provide oxygen to the victim.

2. If necessary, stop bleeding.

4. Call an ambulance and, if possible, describe as accurately as possible the condition of the victim and the conditions in which the injury occurred.

When should I see a doctor?

In case of brain damage, even if first aid is provided quickly and correctly, it is necessary to consult a doctor. As a rule, this is required for the complex treatment of the victim, which includes not only medication, but also physiotherapy or even surgical treatment.

In any case, brain damage is a serious disease that requires professional medical supervision.

Main symptoms of brain damage

Physical manifestations

A person affected by brain damage may experience various physical symptoms, such as:

• Headaches;
• Vomiting and nausea;
• Trembling and convulsions;
• Increased body temperature;
• Paralysis or weakness of muscles;

In addition, the victim may lose consciousness or feel general weakness.

Behavioral and mental changes

Brain damage can also lead to behavioral changes and mental disorders. Among the most common symptoms are:

• Loss of memory;
• Speech and hearing impairment;
• Sleep and vigilance disorder;
• Apathy or irritability;
• Impaired ability to orientate in space;

The victim may also experience emotional and mental problems such as depression, anxiety and fear.

Neurological disorders

Various neurological disorders may also occur with brain damage:

• Impaired sensation and coordination of movements;
• Pain in limbs, face or back;
• Impaired vision or hearing;
• Violation of the nervous system.

If you suspect brain damage, you should immediately consult a doctor for qualified assistance.

Treatment of brain damage: modern methods

Drug treatment

Many drugs have been developed to treat brain damage. They are aimed at eliminating inflammation, pain, swelling and other manifestations of the disease.

It is important to note that self-medication with drugs can lead to undesirable consequences. It is necessary to consult a doctor and strictly follow the recommendations for dosage and medication.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapeutic procedures improve cerebral circulation, stimulate the body to regenerate damaged tissues and eliminate swelling.

As a rule, physiotherapeutic methods of treatment are used in combination with other methods aimed at accelerating and enhancing the result.

Surgery

Surgery may be required when a brain lesion has caused a blood clot, tumor, or hemorrhage.

The operation is aimed at reducing intracranial pressure, removing tumors and blood clots, which allows to reduce the consequences and return the patient to normal life.

• Drug treatment is aimed at eliminating the manifestations of the disease.
• Physiotherapeutic procedures improve blood circulation and eliminate swelling.
• Surgery may be necessary in cases where the cause of brain damage is tumors, hemorrhages, etc.

How to protect your brain from damage?

Most cases of brain damage are due to external factors such as trauma, strokes, hemorrhages and strokes. However, there are ways to prevent the possibility of brain damage.

• Wear a safety helmet. For athletes and individuals working in hazardous environments, wearing special protective helmets can greatly reduce the risk of brain injury.
• Learn to fall correctly. Some sports have a high risk of brain damage, but the ability to fall can reduce the possibility of injury.
• Avoid dangerous habits. The use of drugs and alcohol increases the risk of brain damage and other dangerous diseases.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep can help reduce the risk of many diseases, including brain damage.

Brain damage can be serious, but there are ways to protect your brain to prevent injury. Wearing protection during sports or work, learning how to fall properly, avoiding dangerous habits, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can all help reduce the risk of brain damage and keep your brain healthy.

Brain injury rehabilitation

Life skills recovery

Brain injury is a serious condition that can lead to the loss of many life skills. Rehabilitation after such a defeat is a process of returning to the old way of life by recovering lost skills and acquiring new ones.

• Physical training. It can improve motor coordination and reduce muscle cramps.
• Speech treatment. After brain damage, speech problems may occur, which can be solved by various techniques and training.
• Psychological support. The rehabilitation process can be difficult, so it is important that the patient receives the necessary support and understanding from their loved ones and professionals.

Medications

Medications may be prescribed to treat physical and mental symptoms after brain damage.

1. Anticonvulsants. Used to reduce the frequency of seizures or eliminate them.
2. Antidepressants. These drugs can improve mood and help manage the mental health problems that can occur after brain damage.
3. Medications to improve memory. These drugs may be used to restore or improve memory.

Rehabilitation Programs

Rehabilitation Programs may be prescribed to meet the specific goals of the patient after a brain injury. This can help train the patient to recover quickly and return to normal life.

Program typeDescription

Speech treatment	Improving the ability to communicate after brain damage through training and techniques.
Physical rehabilitation	Training and exercises to improve coordination and restore muscle tone.
Psychological rehabilitation	Treatment of mental disorders that may occur after brain damage.
Rehabilitation for spinal cord injuries	Rehabilitation after spinal cord injuries that may result from brain damage.

Ways to restore brain activity

Early rehabilitation

After a brain injury, it is necessary to start rehabilitation measures as soon as possible so that the brain’s capabilities are restored more fully. Early rehabilitation is a set of special trainings that may include massage, physical therapy, speech therapy, psychotherapy, etc.

Corrective exercises

Corrective exercises are exercises that help restore the function of the affected area of ​​the brain. They will differ depending on which area of ​​the brain is damaged. For example, in patients with damage to the left hemisphere of the brain, corrective training should work on the right side of the body, since the left side of the brain controls the right side of the body.

Medication

Medication may include medications to help restore normal brain function. For example, medications can help restore normal circulation, speed up the recovery of areas of the brain that have been damaged, or improve cognitive function in the brain.

Personalized approach

It is important to understand that each case of restoration of brain activity is unique. Therefore, it is necessary to use an individual approach when choosing therapy. Physicians must consider all factors, including age, gender, degree of brain damage, etc., to select the optimal combination of treatments for each patient.

Support of family and friends

Support of family and friends is a very important aspect in the restoration of brain activity. Relatives and friends should be close to the patient to support him in difficult moments and help in the implementation of rehabilitation measures. It is also very important that family and friends are in constant contact with the medical staff to keep abreast of all changes and provide the necessary support and assistance.

Method of recoveryDescription

Psychological consequences of brain damage 901 33

Brain damage is a serious problem that can change lives forever person. One of the most significant consequences of brain damage are psychological disorders. People who experience this problem may experience a variety of emotional and mental symptoms.

• Depression – decreased mood and interest in life, experiencing a painful feeling of sadness, loss of desire to engage in familiar activities and hobbies. This disorder can occur alone or be combined with other mental disorders.
• Anxiety – constant anxiety, unreasonable fears, restlessness, tension, difficulty in controlling one’s thoughts and emotions.
• Memory loss – brain damage can cause various memory impairments. People can forget current events as well as what happened in the past. They may find it difficult to perceive new information and process accumulated knowledge.
• Decreased concentration – People with brain damage may experience difficulty keeping attention on a task, reduced ability to switch between tasks, forgetfulness, inaccuracy.

All of these symptoms can seriously affect quality of life, lead to social isolation and poor functioning in society. Therefore, the restoration of the psychological state in case of brain damage becomes one of the most important tasks of rehabilitation.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What are the main causes of brain damage?

Brain damage can be caused by many factors, including head trauma, stroke, brain tumor, infections, and other diseases. Each case of brain damage is unique and requires an individual approach to treatment.

What symptoms may indicate brain damage?

Symptoms of brain damage may include headache, dizziness, vomiting, impaired concentration, loss of consciousness, changes in mood and behavior, memory loss, and others. However, each case of brain damage is unique and requires an individual approach in diagnosis and treatment.

How is a brain injury diagnosed?

Diagnosis of brain damage may include the use of neuroimaging (eg, CT, MRI), neuropsychological tests, electroencephalography (EEG), and other methods. It is important to conduct a comprehensive examination to determine the nature and extent of brain damage.

How is brain damage treated?

Treatment of brain damage depends on its cause and nature. May include drug therapy, physical therapy, rehabilitation therapy, surgery, and other methods. It is important to carry out treatment under the supervision of specialists and subject to an individual approach to each patient.

What are the possible complications of brain damage?

Damage to the brain can lead to various complications, including paralysis, speech and coordination disorders, memory loss, depression and other mental illnesses. It is important to carry out timely and comprehensive treatment in order to prevent the development of complications and achieve the best results.

Is it possible to prevent brain damage?

Some brain damage can be prevented, for example, by preventing head injury, controlling blood pressure, and other risk factors. However, not all cases of brain damage can be prevented, so it is important to take precautions and carefully monitor your health.

| Organic brain damage in children

Symptoms of organic brain damage in children

The main sign of organic brain damage in children is psychoorganic syndrome.
This condition is expressed in violation of three aspects of the brain at once.

1. Problems with memory – the child does not remember new information well and loses part of what has already been learned (partial amnesia)
   Moreover, unrealistic (invented) memories may appear during AKI.
2. Decreased intelligence – such children do not concentrate well, their thinking is disturbed, they find it difficult to orient themselves in space.
3. Affective disorders and reduced neurodynamics – babies with organic brain damage constantly experience weakness, dizziness and headaches, they are prone to depression, irritability. Often kids show inadequate emotions and “field” behavior.
4. Speech and intellectual development delay is another symptom of an organic brain lesion, which is characterized by impaired cognitive activity.
   This condition is not congenital, like mental retardation, but 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.

There are also a number of focal symptoms which depend on the area of ​​the brain where the disturbance is located.

Frontal lobe – mimic and eye muscles are paralyzed, the sense of smell is impaired and words are difficult to pronounce, difficulties in performing purposeful movements, strange behavior on the verge of euphoria.

Parietal lobe – violation of sensitivity, inability to perform purposeful meaningful actions, as well as inability to learn to read and count. Frequent seizures with convulsions.

Temporal lobe – impaired sense of smell and hearing, problems with taste sensations, hallucinations, emotionally unstable mood, partial or complete misunderstanding of speech.

Occipital lobe – visual impairment up to blindness, problems with coordination of movements and balance, hallucinations, convulsions during seizures.

Naturally, therapy and correction of AKI should be prescribed based on the cause of its occurrence and development.
For example, doctors recommend treating infections caused by antibiotics, antivirals, and immunostimulants.
If AKI has developed as a result of a tumor, then, first of all, you need to take care of its removal. You can’t argue with that.

Coronary diseases of the brain official medicine offers to treat with nootropic drugs , as well as use decongestant and vascular therapy.

It must be remembered that drug therapy cannot but have side effects, sometimes harmful .

Eliminating the consequences is often more difficult and longer than the main violation.

But without psychological and corrective therapy, even in the case of successful drug therapy, you CAN’T DO IT.

If your child:

• is very picky and capricious about food
• sensitive to changes in the weather
• he gets sick in the car
• he is inattentive
• speaks badly
• restless
• cries often
• clumsy
• lazy

Do you think that all these are character traits? In fact, these are neurological problems that may be associated with organic brain damage. If these disorders are ignored now, then in the future they can cause serious behavioral disorders, speech and general developmental delays, and subsequently difficulties in schooling.

The fact is that at an early age the consequences of many neurological disorders can be easily corrected and forgotten about forever. But in adolescence, small problems often turn into big ones and it is already very difficult to cope with them.

Therefore, it is better not to postpone the visit to the neurologist and neuropsychologist.

It is especially important to conduct neuropsychological diagnostics in children before entering the 1st grade, to identify and correct neuropsychological disorders in time so that children do not develop “school failure”, which will affect not only the learning process, but also the psychological state of the child.