Hydrocephalus is the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain. Too much fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain.
The pressure of an excessive cerebrospinal fluid formed by hydrocephalus can damage brain tissues and lead to various brain function problems.
Hydrocephalus usually occurs in babies and adults 60 years of age or older. It is necessary to go to various therapies to be able to control the signs and symptoms.
Surgical treatment for hydrocephalus can restore cerebrospinal fluid levels in the brain and keep them regular. In general, a variety of therapies are required to control the symptoms of functional impairments caused by hydrocephalus.
Causes
Hydrocephalus is caused by an inequality between the cerebrospinal fluid generated and the amount absorbed into the bloodstream.
Genetic defects
Certain infections during pregnancy
Injury or trauma
Diseases that damage the central nervous system
Intracerebral bleeding during or after the delivery
Injuries before, during, or after delivery
Tumors of the central nervous system
Symptoms
Depending on the age of appearance, it will be the signs and symptoms that the patient presents.
Babies
Rapid growth in head size
Poor growth
Convulsions
Deficiency in muscle tone and strength
Head size is larger than usual
Irritability
Bad nutrition
Downward Facing Eye, Also Known As Sunset
Sensory problems
Drowsiness
Have a more inflamed or tight spot on the top of the head
Threw up
Children
Changes in personality
Convulsions
Head size is larger than usual
Headache
Urinary incontinence
Irritability
Downward Facing Eye, Also Known As Sunset
Loss of appetite
Trouble walking or talking
Balance problems
Coordination problems
Drowsiness
Double or blurred vision
Threw up
Adults
Headache
Lethargy
Balance problems
Coordination problems
Urinary incontinence
Vision problems
Memory and concentration problems
Older adults (60 years or older)
Loss of memory and concentration
Urinary incontinence
Walking problems
Balance problems
Coordination problems
Risk factor's
Congenital disability
Central nervous system development problems, obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid
Bleeding within the ventricles
Infection in the uterus during pregnancy
Brain and spinal cord injury
Central nervous system infections
Bleeding in the brain, caused by a stroke or head injury
Other injuries to the brain
Diagnosis of Hydrocephalus
The Neurosurgeon or Pediatric Neurosurgeon will perform a physical, neurological exam and ask questions related to your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history.
We group some of the possible tests that the Neurosurgeon or Pediatric Neurosurgeon could perform:
Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Common treatment options include:
A bypass; is the most common treatment; the surgical insertion of a drainage system is performed. Patients suffering from hydrocephalus require regular monitoring and may need a lifelong shunt system.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy; fluid is drained through a small opening in the third ventricle
Living with Hydrocephalus
When being diagnosed with Hydrocephalus, it is crucial to follow the treatment provided by the Neurosurgeon or Pediatric Neurosurgeon.
Children with this disease need special care, visit visits, and follow up for more tests, procedures, and surgeries if necessary.
Parents must learn about Hydrocephalus. It participates in its treatment, education, and care, ensuring that their child adapts to their disease and can lead a healthy life.
Children and adults are encouraged to attend support groups or see a mental health specialist.
¿When do you have to see a doctor?
Make your appointment with the Neurosurgeon or Pediatric Neurosurgeon to present any of the mentioned symptoms or to detect another abnormal sign.
When consulting your doctor, we recommend keeping a record of your pain with a detailed description of the symptoms, duration, and what you think triggered them. Also, mention any medications you are taking.
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