what is brain edema?
Brain edema is “extra fluid” within the tissues of the brain. This fluid can occur as a result of tumor cell growth, tumor cell death, or as a side effect of treatment. Since the skull is a rigid “container” with no extra room, this fluid causes pressure on the brain, blood vessels, and nerves. This results in the person having symptoms. What are the signs of brain edema? • Increasing or severe headaches not relieved with Tylenol®. These headaches are often- worse in the morning. • Nausea or vomiting. • Any change in strength, sensation (numbness or tingling), or coordination. • Any change in speech, vision, or hearing. • New onset of confusion. • Changes in memory or behavior. • New onset of seizures or having more seizures than “usual”. • Trouble with balance, walking, or dizziness. What are steroids? Steroids are hormones produced by the adrenal glands that are used to reduce brain swelling. Steroids belong to a class of drugs called corticosteroids. The steroids used to treat brain
