The medical ailment hydrocephalus is caused by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, impaired vision, and difficulties with balance and coordination.
Hydrocephalus can progress to more severe symptoms such as seizures and cognitive impairment if neglected. The causes of hydrocephalus can range from inherited disorders to infections or brain injuries.
If you seek the best hydrocephalus treatment in Bhopal, go beyond Bansal Hospital! The doctors are professionals in treating this ailment and provide excellent care to all our patients. With our cutting-edge facilities and sympathetic team, you can rely on us to assist you or a loved one in managing hydrocephalus and living life to the fullest.
Understanding Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a medical disorder described by an abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulation within the brain's cavities. It is a transparent fluid surrounding and cushioning the brain and spinal cord, supplying nourishment and eliminating waste.
There is an imbalance between the generation and absorption of CSF in hydrocephalus, resulting in its buildup and increasing pressure within the brain.
It is vital to remember that hydrocephalus is a complex disorder with varying prognoses depending on the underlying reason, the severity of the symptoms, and the promptness with which it is diagnosed and treated. Early detection and care are critical for maximising outcomes and reducing potential problems.
Causes Of Hydrocephalus
The following are the significant causes of hydrocephalus:
1. Impairment
A stumbling barrier inhibiting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow is the most prevalent cause of hydrocephalus. This restriction can be caused by inherent structural defects such as aqueductal stenosis (narrowing of the cerebral aqueduct) or acquired disorders such as brain tumours, cysts, or infections.
2. Overproduction Of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
Hydrocephalus can arise in rare circumstances due to an overproduction of CSF by the choroid plexus, which creates CSF. This overproduction has been linked to some cancers and other disorders.
3. Absorption
Hydrocephalus can also be caused by the brain's inability to absorb CSF. This can be caused by meningitis, brain haemorrhage, or past surgery.
Hydrocephalus Treatment
Hydrocephalus therapy consists of the following steps:
1. Shunt Positioning
Surgical shunt installation is the most common treatment for hydrocephalus shunt devices. A shunt is a flexible tube implanted into the brain's ventricles to redirect excess CSF to another body organ, most commonly the abdominal cavity or the heart.
This assists in regulating the flow and relieving strain on the brain. Shunt systems can be programmable or non-programmable, requiring constant monitoring and possible adjustments throughout a person's life.
2. ETV (Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy)
When a blockage in the cerebral aqueduct develops hydrocephalus, an alternative surgical treatment known as ETV may be performed.
This method involves creating a hole at the base of the third ventricle to allow cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to flow directly into the subarachnoid space, bypassing the blockage.
3. Ventriculoperitoneal (VPS) VS Ventriculoatrial (VAS) Shunt
Individual factors such as age, medical condition, and patient preference influence the placement of ventriculoperitoneal and ventriculoatrial shunts. CSF is directed to the peritoneal cavity via ventriculoperitoneal shunts, whereas it is directed to the heart's right atrium via ventriculoatrial shunts.
4. Additional Treatments
The underlying aetiology of hydrocephalus may necessitate tailored treatment in some circumstances. If a brain tumour causes hydrocephalus, for example, surgical removal or radiation therapy may be required. Infections that cause hydrocephalus may necessitate antibiotic or antiviral therapy.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) is a disorder marked by aberrant cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulation in the brain's ventricles, resulting in enlarged ventricles.
NPH, unlike other kinds of hydrocephalus, is distinguished by normal intracranial pressure. It primarily affects older persons and is frequently the result of an unknown aetiology. NPH mainly affects elderly folks, usually those over 60; however, it can sometimes affect younger people.
Symptoms Of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
- Disturbances in gait
- Impaired cognition
- Incontinence of the bladder.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Treatment
- Surgically implanting a ventriculoperitoneal shunt to drain excess CSF and relieve symptoms.
- Rehabilitation may be required to improve function and quality of life. While treatment responses vary, careful management and monitoring are required for the best results.
The Final Say
Hydrocephalus is a complex neurological disorder described by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles. It can have various symptoms and causes, including structural problems, tumours, or infections.
For treating hydrocephalus and enhancing the quality of life, timely diagnosis and effective treatment, frequently necessitating surgical intervention, are critical. Regular check-ups are required to address issues and ensure that shunt systems or other treatment modalities operate correctly.
Furthermore, you might get treatment at the Bansal Hospital's neurological department in Bhopal. You will be provided with all required facilities and guidance from healthcare professionals.
About Bansal Hospital
Bansal Hospital is a multispeciality hospital and is one of the leading, reputable and reliable healthcare providers trusted by patients and their families across the region. It has all the central departments, including cardiology, neurology, oncology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology, urology, liver transplant, bone marrow transplantation, nephrology, gynaecology and more. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and technology. It has a team of highly qualified and experienced doctors and medical staff who provide round-the-clock care to the patient.
Visit Our Website
