Hydrocephalus is a condition that is known by the presence of abnormal fluid accumulation in the brain cavities which increases the pressure on the brain. It’s a serious condition that can affect people at any age and can lead to death if left untreated. It affects 85 per 100,000 worldwide with the highest incidence in infants and people older than eighty years old. This condition affects males and females equally.
The symptoms differ according to the age of the patient.
Infants :
A rapid increase in head size
Large head
A bulge on the soft spot on the top of the head
Vomiting
Feeding problems
Irritability
Sleepiness
Eyes that are fixed downwards
Seizures
Older children, young adults, and middle-aged adults :
Headache
Blurred vision
Nausea
Vomiting
Balance problems
Slowing of developmental milestones like walking or talking
Decreased school/job performance
Urinary incontinence and frequent urination
Sleepiness
Irritability
Personality changes
Cognitive changes including memory loss
Older adults:
Walking problems
Progressive mental impairment
Dementia
Slow movement
Urinary incontinence and frequent urination
Poor coordination and balance
Visit a Neurologist to be diagnosed and treated properly, If you or one of your family have any of these symptoms
Hydrocephalus is caused by many reasons which may be congenital or acquired.
Congenital causes :
Neural tube defects
Prenatal hemorrhage
Infections during pregnancy
Acquired causes :
Infections such as meningitis
Hemorrhage
Traumatic brain injury
Diagnosis depends on the signs, symptoms, physical examination by the Neurologist, and brain imaging.
Brain imaging :
Computed tomography imaging (a procedure in which x-ray and a computer are used to produce an image of the brain).
Ultrasound imaging (a procedure in which ultrasound waves are used to produce an image of the brain).
Magnetic resonance imaging (a procedure in which magnetic fields are used to produce an image of the brain).
Hydrocephalus should be treated as fast as possible because if left untreated it can cause permanent brain damage, physical and mental impairment, and death. Surgery is the treatment of choice for this condition, and may include :
Shunt : A flexible tube is inserted into the brain to drain the excess fluid from the brain to the abdomen so that it can be absorbed by the body easily.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy : A tiny opening is made at the bottom of the 3rd brain ventricle by the endoscope to improve the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid outside the brain and relieve the pressure.
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