Hydrocephalus
A.K.A Water on the Brain
Signs & Symptoms
Infants:
- Eyes fixed downwards
- vomiting
- bulging or tense soft spot
Toddlers and older children:
- headache
- delay in talking or walking
- blurred or double vision
Young, middle aged and older adults:
- difficulty remaining awake or waking up
- loss of bladder control
- decline in memory, concentration, and other thinking skills
- slower than normal movements
Diagnostic Tests
- ultrasound
- MRI
- CT
- Neurological exam
Treatment
- Shunt- the surgical insertion of a drainage system
- Ventriculostomy- a small video camera goes inside the brain and makes a hole in the bottom of one of the ventricles or between the ventricles to enable fluid to flow out of the brain
Specialists you can see...
- Occupational therapist
- Pediatrician
- Psychiatrist
- Mental Health Provider
- Developmental therapist
Prognosis
The prognosis of hydrocephalus is hard to predict because the mortality rate depends on many factors, including existing illnesses, associated disorders, and age.
Prevention
- Use appropriate safety equipment
- Wear a seat belt
- If you are pregnant, get regular prenatal care
- protect against infectious illnesses
Bibligraphy
Mayo Clinic
what is hydrocephalus?