Hydrocephalus

What Is Hydrocephalus and How Does It Occur?

Hydrocephalus is a condition that causes a buildup of fluid normally found in brain tissue. This condition interferes with the normal development of brain tissue and can have serious consequences. Hydrocephalus can occur from birth or later in life. Causes of this condition include genetic factors, infections that the mother had during her pregnancy, and abnormalities in brain tissue. Since hydrocephalus can be controlled with early diagnosis and treatment, it is important that babies are examined regularly in the first weeks after birth.

In the article, explanations about what hydrocephalus is, its symptoms and treatment will be explained under the following headings:

• What is hydrocephalus and how does it occur?
• What are the symptoms of hydrocephalus?
• How is hydrocephalus diagnosed?
• What is the hydrocephalus treatment?

What Is Hydrocephalus and How Does It Occur?

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which fluid collects in the cavities of the brain. This fluid interferes with the normal development of brain tissue and can cause serious complications. Hydrocephalus is a disease that can usually be noticed externally in infants and children. Among the reasons for its occurrence are:

• Genetic factors: Some genetic abnormalities can lead to fluid accumulation in the brain tissue.
• Infections of the mother during pregnancy: Some infections, such as toxoplasmosis, cause abnormalities in the brain tissue, which can trigger the development of hydrocephalus.
• Abnormalities in the brain tissue: Fluid accumulation may occur as a result of abnormalities in brain development or the failure of the brain tissue to grow properly.
• Other causes: Conditions such as brain tumors or trauma-induced injuries can also cause hydrocephalus.

What Are the Symptoms of Hydrocephalus?

Symptoms of hydrocephalus can vary depending on how much the brain tissue is damaged and how much fluid builds up. Some of these symptoms appear immediately, while others may appear within a few hours or days. In general, in infants; It is manifested by enlargement of the head, distortion of the shape of the head, bruises and protrusions on the scalp, constant crying and changes in facial expression.

In children, developmental delay, coordination disorders, speech disorders and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are among the symptoms. Hydrocephalus can also be seen in adults. Adults have symptoms such as headaches, seizures, coordination disorders, and visual and hearing disorders.

How is hydrocephalus diagnosed?

For the diagnosis of hydrocephalus, the doctor carefully examines the person's head and brain tissue and detects abnormalities in this area. The doctor  also evaluates the symptoms and requests radiological tests. It uses computed tomography (CT) to evaluate brain functions. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) helps to get more detailed images. After making sure of hydrocephalus, the patient is diagnosed.

What is Hydrocephalus Treatment?

Treatment for hydrocephalus can vary depending on the severity of the condition and how much brain tissue has been damaged. First, the doctor determines the severity of the condition and decides whether an urgent intervention is needed. If an urgent intervention is required, this intervention is done and efforts are made to prevent further damage to the brain tissue. Then the treatment process begins. The aim in this process is to reduce the accumulation of fluid in the brain tissue and to improve brain functions. For this purpose, one or more of the following treatment methods can be used:

Surgical treatment

If the fluid accumulation in the brain tissue is too much, surgical intervention can be performed. This intervention is done to reduce the accumulation of fluid in the brain tissue.

Medication

Diuretic drugs or other medications may be given to reduce fluid buildup.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation therapy may be recommended to help improve movement and other functions affected by hydrocephalus. Among them; There are physical therapy and speech therapy.

shunts

 In some cases, a shunt may be placed to help drain excess fluid from the brain. A shunt is a small tube that is placed in the brain and then connected to another part of the body, such as the abdomen, where excess fluid can be safely removed.

Raising awareness about hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a condition that can have long-term effects on brain function. It is important to monitor the condition after treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. In some cases, additional surgeries or other medical procedures may be required to maintain proper fluid drainage and prevent further damage to brain tissue. For this reason, raising awareness of patients and their relatives is added to the treatment plan. Conditions such as following a balanced diet and doing physical activities are important to prevent hydrocephalus.