The symptoms of a brain abscess can develop quickly or slowly.
In around two-thirds of people, symptoms are present for two weeks or less before they worsen to such an extent that the person needs to be admitted to hospital.
Common symptoms include:
- headache
- changes in mental state, such as confusion or irritability
- problems with nerve function, such as muscle weakness, slurred speech or paralysis on one side of the body
- fever
- seizures (fits)
- nausea and vomiting
- stiff neck
- changes in vision, such as blurring, greying of vision or double vision (because of the abscess putting pressure on the optic nerve)
When to seek medical advice
Any symptoms that suggest a problem with the brain and nervous system, such as slurred speech, muscle weakness or paralysis, or seizures occurring in a person who had no previous history of seizures should be treated as a medical emergency. Phone 999 and ask for an ambulance.
Any symptoms that suggest a worsening infection, such as fever and vomiting, should be reported to your GP immediately. If your GP is not available, contact your local out-of-hours service or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
