Hydrocephalus

What is hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is the greater-than-usual buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. CSF flows in and out of the brain, delivering nutrients and removing waste. It also acts as a cushion, protecting the brain and spinal cord from injury.

Your body produces the amount of CSF it needs each day and resorbs the same amount to prevent too much CSF from reaching the brain.

With hydrocephalus, the CSF isn’t resorbed and builds up in the cavities (ventricles) of the brain, causing swelling. The swelling increases pressure, affecting brain function.

How does hydrocephalus occur?

Hydrocephalus occurs when the flow or absorption of the CSF is blocked. Doctors classify hydrocephalus into types based on how the buildup happens:

Communicating hydrocephalus

With communicating hydrocephalus, the flow of CSF from the ventricles is blocked. It occurs when the membrane thickens at the base of the brain (arachnoid mater).

Noncommunicating hydrocephalus

Noncommunicating hydrocephalus occurs when one or more narrow passages connecting the ventricles are blocked.

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)

NPH is a slow buildup of CSF in the ventricles, enlarging the spaces. This type of hydrocephalus is common in older adults.

Hydrocephalus ex vacuo

A head injury or stroke may cause hydrocephalus ex vacuo. The increase in CSF occurs due to the shrinking of the ventricles during or after a brain injury.

Hydrocephalus affects all ages — infants, children, and adults.

What are the symptoms of hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus symptoms vary depending on age. An infant’s head can be enlarged or have a bulging soft spot. They might also vomit or be sleepy.

Symptoms in children and adults include:

• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting
• Vision changes
• Fatigue
• Memory loss
• Poor balance

The Advanced Neurology of Katy team diagnoses hydrocephalus during a neurological exam that includes an imaging test like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. They might also recommend a spinal tap to evaluate spinal fluid or check your intracranial pressure.

How is hydrocephalus treated?

Hydrocephalus is treatable. The team at Advanced Neurology of Katy recommends brain surgery to reduce the fluid buildup. Surgery could include placing a shunt to drain the fluid or creating a ventriculostomy, a new pathway for the CSF to flow in and around the brain.

Hydrocephalus is dangerous when left untreated. Call Advanced Neurology of Katy today or book an appointment online for expert care.