Brain Lesions (Lesions on the Brain) (cont.)

Symptoms of a brain lesion depend upon what part of the brain is affected. Large parts of the brain can be involved in some diseases and there may be relatively few symptoms. Alternatively, very tiny lesions may be catastrophic if they occur in a critical part of the brain. For example, the reticular activating system (RAS) is a tiny area located within the brainstem that is effectively the master on/off switch of the brain. If a midbrain stroke affects this area, the result is permanent coma. A patient needs the RAS and one functioning hemisphere of the cortex to be awake. If the patient is unconscious, then the RAS isn't working or there is significant damage to both sides of the brain.

Initial signs and symptoms of a brain lesion are often non-specific and may include:

• Headache
  
  
• Nausea
  
  
• Fever (if an infection is present)
  
  
• Neck pain and stiffness (if the meninges are inflamed)
  
  
• Affected vision (if there is damage along the pathway from the optic nerve to the occiput)
  
  
• Affected speech (if there is damage to Broca's area) Speech includes saying and understanding words.
  
  
• Difficulty making words (due to weakness of the muscles that control the mouth)
  
  
• Weakness or paralysis to one side of the body
  
  
• Seizures
  
  
• Memory loss and confusion
  
  
• Personality changes, loss of concentration, aggression and loss of personal control
  
  
• Worst headache of your life

If any of these symptoms arise suddenly, the person should be evaluated immediately, usually in an emergency department that is well equipped (CT scanner, MRI, easy access to neurosurgeons and neurologists).

Source: MedicineNet.com
http://www.medicinenet.com/brain_lesions_lesions_on_the_brain/article.htm