Brain Herniation
Alternate Names : Tentorial Herniation
What are the treatments for the condition?
This is a medical emergency, so treatment must be started
right away. Treatment is aimed at reducing the brain's swelling. The person
will be given different kinds of medicine through an intravenous line,
called an IV. This treatment helps to get rid of excess water in the brain and reduce swelling. Treatment
of the cause of the herniation is started next. The person will be kept in the
hospital until the problem is solved.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Even with successful relief of symptoms, the herniation may
return if the cause is not also fixed. For instance, sometimes brain tumors
return. In some cases, surgery is needed to relieve the pressure. Medicines
may cause side effects, such as allergic reactions
and chemical imbalances, that need to be treated right away. Close
monitoring is critical during treatment.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
A person is often left with severe impairments, including:
cognitive impairments,
which are problems with thinking
mobility impairments,
which are problems with movement
speech impairments,
which are problems with talking
If the person has significant impairments, it is important to
begin rehabilitation with specialized therapists, nurses, and doctors who
treat brain injuries.
How is the condition monitored?
All vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate,
body temperature, and pressure inside the skull, should be monitored
during treatment. After the crisis is over, ongoing monitoring of the problem
that caused the herniation may be needed. Any new or worsening symptoms
should be reported to the doctor.
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