(I've been researching this like crazy...I thought I might as well add what I find here)
What is hydrocephalus?
The term hydrocephalus is derived from the Greek words "hydro" meaning water and "cephalus" meaning head. As its name implies, it is a condition in which the primary characteristic is excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain. Although hydrocephalus was once known as "water on the brain," the "water" is actually cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) �?a clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The excessive accumulation of CSF results in an abnormal dilation of the spaces in the brain called ventricles. This dilation causes potentially harmful pressure on the tissues of the brain.
The balance between production and absorption of CSF is critically important. Ideally, the fluid is almost completely absorbed into the bloodstream as it circulates; however, there are circumstances which, when present, will prevent or disturb the production or absorption of CSF, or which will inhibit its normal flow. When this balance is disturbed, hydrocephalus is the result.
What are the symptoms?
In older children or adults, symptoms may include:
- headache
- vomiting
- nausea
- papilledema (swelling of the optic disk which is part of the optic nerve)
- blurred vision
- diplopia (double vision)
- sunsetting of the eyes
- problems with balance
- poor coordination
- gait disturbance
- urinary incontinence
- slowing or loss of development
- lethargy
- drowsiness
- irritability
- other changes in personality or cognition including memory loss.
Symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus include:
- progressive mental impairment and dementia
- problems with walking
- impaired bladder control leading to urinary frequency and/or incontinence.
- a general slowing of movements
- may complain that his or her feet feel "stuck."
Because these symptoms are similar to those of other disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, the disorder is often misdiagnosed. Many cases go unrecognized and are never properly treated. Doctors may use a variety of tests, including brain scans (CT and/or MRI), a spinal tap or lumbar catheter, intracranial pressure monitoring, and neuropsychological tests, to help them diagnose normal pressure hydrocephalus and rule out other conditions.
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