How Geriatric Patients Can Learn About Hydrocephalus

There are many ways for geriatric patients to learn what hydrocephalus is and how it can affect them. One of course is to talk to their primary care physician. Another is to talk to other patients. But perhaps the most effective way to get up-to-date information is to go online and visit one of the many websites dedicated to the problem.

Hydrocephalus is caused by an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the cavities of the brain. This may cause increased pressure inside the skull which can lead to progressive enlargement of the head, convulsion, and mental disability. This condition is usually due to blockage of outflow fluid from the brain. The most established treatment of Hydrocephalus is the use of a Hydrocephalus Shunt which establishes an accessory pathway for the drainage of fluid which allows the excess fluid within the drain to be evacuated.

Hydrocephalus Symptoms in geriatric patients usually begins with difficulty walking after which urinary incontinence may develop, along with slowness of thinking and information processing usually associated with a type of dementia. Other symptoms may include any or all of the following: Sluggishness or lack of energy; Problems with balance, coordination or gait; Blurred or double vision; Sluggishness and lack of energy, and; Headache followed by nausea. All of these definitions, treatments and symptoms are detailed in one of the many websites dedicated to this condition