Get Hydrocephalus Treatment in India, Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition that causes an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles (cavities) deep within the brain. This excess fluid causes the ventricles to expand, putting unnecessary pressure on the brain’s structures. Hydrocephalus may be present at or shortly after birth, or it may develop over time as a result of damage or injury.
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless fluid that protects and cushions the brain and spine. Cerebrospinal fluid circulates through the ventricles and soaks the brain and spinal cord before being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Every day, the body creates and absorbs a sufficient amount of CSF. Excess CSF can prevent the brain from functioning properly, which leads to brain damage or even death.
Types of Hydrocephalus
There are four types of hydrocephalus:
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Communicating hydrocephalus:
It occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked after it exits your ventricles. This type of hydrocephalus can be caused by arachnoid membrane thickening at the base of the brain. This type of hydrocephalus is known as communicating because CSF can still flow between your ventricles, which remain open.
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Noncommunicating hydrocephalus:
It is often referred to as obstructive hydrocephalus. Non-communicating hydrocephalus develops when the flow of CSF gets blocked along one or more of the small passages that connect your ventricles.
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Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH):
It occurs when CSF buildup causes your ventricles to expand with little to no increase in pressure. The main difference between NPH and other types of hydrocephalus is that, despite the presence of more CSF than normal, the pressure inside your ventricles remains the same. The buildup of CSF in your ventricles occurs slowly, and symptoms appear over time.
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Hydrocephalus ex-vacuo:
It is caused by brain damage following a head injury or stroke. In some situations, the brain tissue surrounding the ventricles shrinks. CSF develops in the ventricles to fill the extra space. Although your ventricles are enlarged, the pressure in your head usually stays normal.
Hydrocephalus symptoms in adults and children:
Symptoms of hydrocephalus vary a lot from person to person and mainly depend on age:
- Headache
- Blurred or multiple vision
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Difficulties with Balance
- Slowing or loss of developmental progress, such as walking and speaking.
- Vision issues
- Lack of coordination
- Lack of bladder control and/or frequent urinating
- Difficulty staying awake or waking up
- Sleepiness
- Irritability
- Changes in personality, or memory loss
Treatment for Hydrocephalus in India
There are two types of brain surgeries used for treating hydrocephalus:
Hydrocephalus Shunt Surgery or VP Shunt Surgery in India:
The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is the surgical installation of a medical device known as a shunt. A shunt is a flexible tube that is inserted inside the brain. It transfers the surplus CSF to another part of your body, where it can be absorbed. Medical equipment called a ventriculoperitoneal shunt is used by surgeons to treat a brain disease known as hydrocephalus.
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV):
This surgery creates a tiny hole in the floor of your third ventricle. This opens up an entrance for CSF to flow in and around your brain as it would normally. This surgery is often performed on children over the age of two.
Hydrocephalus can be a lifelong illness, but with proper treatment, many patients can live a good life. Hydrocephalus life expectancy has increased due to advancements in surgical techniques, particularly in early-diagnosed cases. It will ensure that shunts or ETV operations work effectively over time and give modern treatments that offer hope and relief so that patients can live healthy lives. Medsearch Zambia will provide regular follow-ups and full support throughout your medical journey. In India, with hydrocephalus, there are many other brain-related treatment options available like brain tumors, brain glioma, etc.
