Hydrocephalus is a condition in which cerebrospinal fluid accumulates inside the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid normally flows through the ventricles (open space in each side of the brain) and over the spinal column. It is absorbed by the bloodstream.
Overview
If the fluid is blocked from flowing through the ventricles, the fluid build-up can cause pressure inside the skull and damage to brain tissue, with associated learning disabilities and physical impairments. Hydrocephalus can occur at any age. It is more common in infants and older adults.
Hydrocephalus may be present at birth or may occur after birth for a number of causes, including abnormal development of the central nervous system, bleeding in the brain due to complications of premature birth, or infection in the uterus during pregnancy.
In infants, symptoms include:
- Large head size and fast growth of the head
- Bulging “soft spot” on an infant’s head
- Vomiting
- Sleepiness
- Irritability
- Unwillingness to shift position of the head/neck
- Seizures
- Downward-facing eyes, weak muscle tone
In childhood, symptoms include:
- Headache
- Vision problems
- Large head size
- Sleepiness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Irritability
- Problems in school, academic or social
The causes of hydrocephalus in adults include brain or spinal cord tumors, infections of the central nervous system (meningitis, mumps), stroke or traumatic injury to the brain.
In adults, symptoms include:
- Headache
- Sleepiness
- Problems with coordination, walking, balance
- Problems with memory, or decision-making
- Vision problems
- Loss of bladder control
Our approach
The goal of treatment for hydrocephalus is to maintain the normal fluid levels in the brain. A surgical procedure can be part of the treatment plan to drain excess fluid and reduce pressure on the brain. A shunt is a temporary drainage system that is also used in surgical treatments of hydrocephalus.