Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus Treatment in South Carolina
Neurology Specialists in Greenville, SC
What is Hydrocephalus?
This is a condition where there’s an excess buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. CSF is a clear liquid that cushions our brain and spinal cord, but when too much of it accumulates, it can cause the spaces in the brain, called ventricles, to become too large, putting pressure on the brain. This pressure can lead to brain damage and cause many different symptoms. Hydrocephalus can happen at any age, but it’s most common in infants and adults 60 and older.
Hydrocephalus Symptoms
Hydrocephalus can cause different symptoms depending on a person’s age and the stage of the condition. Here are some common symptoms:
Infants:
- Rapidly increasing head size
- A bulging or tense soft spot on the top of the head
- Vomiting
- Sleepiness
- Irritability
- Poor feeding
- Eyes that appear to gaze downward
Toddlers and Older Children:
- Headaches
- Blurred or double vision
- A high-pitched cry
- Personality changes
- Loss of bladder control
- Problems with balance
Adults:
- Headaches
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of bladder control
- Memory problems
What Causes Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is caused by an issue with the cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, which normally cushions the brain and removes waste. It can happen if this fluid is blocked, not absorbed properly, or if there’s a medical condition like a brain tumor or infection.
In some cases, it’s present from birth due to how the brain develops or genetic reasons. Sometimes, it is unknown why it happens in adults. It’s not anyone’s fault when hydrocephalus occurs.
Treatment for Hydrocephalus
The treatment for hydrocephalus typically involves a surgical procedure to help drain the excess fluid from the brain. Here are the most common treatment options:
- Shunt system – This is the most common treatment. A shunt, which is a long, flexible tube, is inserted into the brain to reroute the flow of cerebrospinal fluid to another part of the body where it can be absorbed
- Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) – This is a surgery where a small hole is made in the bottom of one of the brain’s ventricles or in a membrane located in the brain, allowing the fluid to flow out of the brain
- Medication – In some cases, medicines might be used to reduce CSF production or help the body absorb it better. However, this is usually a temporary solution
Remember, the goal of treatment is to reduce the symptoms caused by the increased pressure in the brain. The best treatment option will depend on the individual’s age, health, and the cause of the hydrocephalus.
Hydrocephalus Care in South Carolina
Our team of Neurologists is ready to help you if you’re having problems related to conditions like hydrocephalus. Are you experiencing symptoms or dealing with a brain condition that’s making life difficult? At this time, you’ll need a referral from your regular doctor or family doctor to see one of our specialists at CONA. They will work with you to figure out the best way to help you feel better and live your life more comfortably.