Hydrocephalus: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Hydrocephalus occurs when fluid builds up deep inside the brain. The cerebrospinal fluid naturally flows through the ventricle and coats the brain and spinal column. When there is too much fluid or if the pressure from the flow of the fluid is too strong, it can cause hydrocephalus. This condition can affect people of all ages but is more common in infants and the elderly. Treatment and therapy can help correct and manage hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus Causes
Hydrocephalus is caused by too much spinal fluid being produced and how much is absorbed into the bloodstream. There may be an obstruction, poor or slow absorption, or overproduction that causes too much pressure and fluid to build up in the brain. The brain swells as a reaction to the pressure, and the head becomes enlarged.
Hydrocephalus Symptoms
The symptoms of hydrocephalus can vary from person to person. Children usually have more obvious symptoms than adults. It can also cause more severe reactions in children. Some people experience a variety of symptoms, while others only experience a few of them. These symptoms include:
- Abnormally large head at birth
- Rapid head growth
- Bulging soft spot
- Vomiting
- Sleep problems
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Seizures
- Eyes fixed downward
- Vision problems
- Lethargy
- Headaches
- Loss of balance
- Change in personality
- Memory loss
- Difficulty walking
- Urinary incontinence
Hydrocephalus Diagnosis
Doctors can often diagnose hydrocephalus just by looking at the head. They will conduct tests to confirm a diagnosis before making it official. In order to do this, they must be able to see inside the brain. Some common tests for the condition include:
- Ultrasound: This test will allow the doctors to look inside the head to determine if there are any signs of swelling as well as the severity of the condition.
- MRI: An MRI gives doctors a closer look at and inside the brain. It will show images from different angles and sections.
- Neurological exam: Doctors will talk with the patient to determine if there are any signs of neurological problems that might suggest the brain is swollen.
Hydrocephalus Treatment
Hydrocephalus is treated with surgery. There are two different surgical options available. The cause of the problem and the overall health of the patient can be factored in which treatment option is best. These options include:
- Shunts: Shunts can be placed in the brain to help the spinal fluid flow properly to the brain and also help direct it to and from the appropriate locations. This is the most common treatment option for hydrocephalus.
- Endoscopic third ventriculostomy: The surgeon makes a small hole in a ventricle to help the fluid flow out of the brain properly. A tiny camera inserted into the brain can help guide the surgeon to make the appropriate holes.
Hydrocephalus Prognosis
The prognosis for people who suffer from hydrocephalus can vary. Some people recover and do not have complications or reoccurring problems. Others struggle with hydrocephalus throughout their lives. The causes of the hydrocephalus play a role in the prognosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of a good prognosis.
Additional Resources:
