Hydrocephalus

                            Hydrocephalus is known as fluid on the brain, this is actually cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The excessive accumulation of CSF causes harmful pressure on the brain.

      Other symptoms;

n      Vomiting

n      Sleepiness

n      Irritability

n      Down ward deviation of the eyes

n      Seizures

                        In older children or adults (because the brain cannot expand) symptoms may include;

n      Headaches

n      Vomiting

n      Blurred vision and/or double vision

n      Sun setting of eyes

n      Poor balance

n      Problems with coordination

n      Incontinence

n      Slowing of loss of development

n      Lethargy and drowsiness

n       irritability

n      Memory loss

                             There are different categories of hydrocephalus, these are;

n      Congenital hydrocephalus – Is present at birth and is associated with other birth defects

n      Acquired hydrocephalus – Can happen due to tumours, infection or bleeding within the brain

n      Normal pressure hydrocephalus – Generally happens to older people

                           If hydrocephalus is suspected the Doctor will carry out several test to determine whether it is or not, this will include;

n      A physical examination

n      An eye examination

n      Brain scans (CT and MRI)

                           The treatment that’s given will depend on the cause, if it’s an infection, an antibiotic will be given. If the antibiotics does not resolve the problem surgery will follow. If it is caused by a blockage the blockage will be surgically removed. In the case of congenital hydrocephalus, a permanent shunt (tube) is inserted to allow excess CSF to drain out to another part of the body, where it can be absorbed.

                          Children diagnosed with hydrocephalus will benefit from rehabilitation therapies and educational interventions, this is necessary to produce a positive outcome. Some people will recover almost completely after treatment with few limitations, offcourse early diagnosis and treatment will improve the chances. Hydrocephalus left untreated can be fatal.

                         I hope this helps……………….