Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is like a blocked drain; when fluid builds up in the brain,
it causes pressure and possible harm.

Overview

Cause

Symptoms

Treatment

Important Considerations

Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition characterized by the abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles (cavities) of the brain. This excess fluid causes the ventricles to enlarge, putting harmful pressure on the brain’s tissues.

Types of Hydrocephalus

There are primarily two types of hydrocephalus:

Communicating hydrocephalus: The flow of CSF is blocked after it exits the ventricles.
Non-communicating hydrocephalus: The flow of CSF is blocked within the ventricles.

Causes of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus can be caused by various factors, including:

Congenital abnormalities: Present at birth, often due to malformations of the brain or spinal cord.
Infections: Such as meningitis or encephalitis.
Brain tumors: Blocking the flow of CSF.
Head injuries: Causing bleeding or damage to the brain.
Other conditions: Such as hemorrhage or brain inflammation.

Symptoms of Hydrocephalus

Symptoms can vary depending on the age of the individual and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

Infants: Enlarged head, bulging fontanels (soft spots on the baby’s head), vomiting, irritability, seizures, and poor feeding.
Children and adults: Headaches, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, balance problems, cognitive difficulties, and incontinence.

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for hydrocephalus is surgery, Hydrocephalus surgery is primarily aimed at draining excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain to relieve pressure.

Shunt placement: This is the most common treatment. A shunt is a tube inserted into the brain to drain excess CSF to another part of the body, like the abdomen, where it can be absorbed.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV): This procedure creates a small opening in the third ventricle to allow CSF to drain into other parts of the brain.

Important Considerations

Shunt malfunctions: Shunts can become blocked, infected, or malfunction, requiring additional surgery.
Life-long management: People with hydrocephalus often require lifelong monitoring and potential adjustments to their shunt.
Risks: Like any surgery, there are associated risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of Hydrocephalus, book an Appointment with Dr Ananth Egoor for safe and attentive care.