Final answer:
Infections such as encephalitis and meningitis can cause acute brain swelling due to inflammation and the brain's limited space to expand. These can result in symptoms like fever, headache, and confusion, and in severe cases, lead to brain damage or death. Prompt treatment is essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
Acute brain swelling can be caused by an infection such as encephalitis or meningitis. These conditions can lead to swelling because of inflammation, which increases intracranial pressure since the brain has limited space to expand within the skull. Encephalitis, which is often viral, causes symptoms such as fever, headache, confusion, and can lead to severe outcomes including brain damage or death. Meningitis, also resulting from viral or bacterial infections, includes symptoms like fever, headache, and a stiff neck, with bacterial meningitis being particularly severe and requiring emergency treatment.
The immune system's response to an infection can cause swelling in the brain, pushing it against the skull. This can damage brain tissues and even lead to death. The condition hydrocephalus, where cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up due to a ventricular blockage, can also cause brain swelling. Prompt medical attention and treatment, such as the use of a shunt in hydrocephalus or antibiotics for bacterial infections, are critical for reducing the risks associated with brain swelling.