About Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus comes from the Greek words hydro meaning water and cephalus meaning head.
Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within cavities in the brain called ventricles. Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in the ventricles and in the choroid plexus. It circulates through the ventricular system in the brain and is absorbed into the bloodstream. This fluid is in constant circulation and has many functions, including surrounding the brain and spinal cord and act as a protective cushion against injury. It contains nutrients and proteins necessary for the nourishment and normal function of the brain, and carries waste products away from surrounding tissues.
Hydrocephalus occurs when there is an imbalance between the amount of CSF that is produced and the rate at which it is absorbed. As the CSF builds up, it causes the ventricles to enlarge and the pressure inside the head to increase
Causes
- Congenital (usually diagnosed during infancy)
- Acquired by tumor, infection, stroke, bleeding into the brain, meningitis or as the result of a severe head injury.
Symptoms
The symptoms of hydrocephalus may vary, according to the age of the patient and the other associated illnesses.
- The head circumference (measurement around the head) of an infant with hydrocephalus will measure larger than the normal infant.
- The infant may have developmental delays, such as delayed sucking, abnormal reflexes, sleepiness, fussiness, nausea or vomiting.
- The older child may complain of headaches, difficulty walking, nausea or vomiting, lack of energy, sleepiness, inattention, blurred vision or dizziness.