Overview

Neurological diseases encompass a broad range of conditions affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. These diseases can lead to various symptoms and impairments, such as movement disorders, cognitive decline, sensory disturbances, seizures, and pain. One such neurological disorder damaging the physical as well as the mental condition of the patient is known as Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus. There are different categories of the disorder depending upon the symptoms of the disorder. Treatment approaches vary depending on the disease and may include medications, physical therapy, surgery, and supportive care. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management are crucial for optimising outcomes and improving the quality of life for individuals with neurological diseases.

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a neurological disorder characterised by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain's ventricles. Unlike other types of hydrocephalus, NPH typically occurs without increased pressure in the brain. The CSF buildup leads to the enlargement of the ventricles, causing symptoms such as urinary incontinence, gait disturbances (difficulty walking), and cognitive decline. The individual also suffers from issues such as dementia. These neurological and physical issues can happen due to damage to the tissues near the brain ventricles filled with excess cerebrospinal fluid. NPH can often be treated effectively by surgically implanting a shunt system to drain excess CSF and alleviate symptoms. Early diagnosis and intervention are important for better outcomes.

Causes of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Mentioned below are some of the causes of the brain disorder that help the doctors decide the proper form of treatment for the patient:

- Brain Tumour- A tumour in the brain is one of the biggest causes of brain disorders. Tumours in the ventricles of the brain act as a blockage in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Hence, the liquid is not absorbed by the brain correctly, leading to issues such as difficulty in walking, speaking, or movement of arms.
- The growth of intraventricular tumours is the primary cause of the disorder. The tumour also blocks the excess flow of cerebrospinal fluid, increasing the pressure inside the brain ventricles.
- Impaired CSF Absorption- NPH may occur due to impaired absorption of brain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This can happen due to conditions such as subarachnoid haemorrhage, infection, meningitis, or inflammation that disrupts CSF's normal flow and absorption.
- Head Injury- A head injury can also be one of the causes of the brain disorder. An injury can change the structure of the head and make it difficult for the cerebrospinal fluid to flow easily through the brain ventricles. Hence, the fluid build-up increases the pressure inside the ventricles damaging the tissues around the ventricles and leading to neurological and physical issues.
- Other Factors- Excessive fluid accumulation in the brain's ventricles can result from various factors, including bleeding, infection, or brain surgery. However, the underlying cause is frequently unknown. The enlargement of ventricles due to the accumulation of excess fluid exerts pressure on neighbouring brain tissue, potentially causing brain damage.

Symptoms of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Mentioned below are some of the normal pressure hydrocephalus symptoms that help to identify the disorder in its initial stages:

- Difficulty in Walking- People with a brain disorder cannot walk properly. The brain cannot control the movement of legs and feet, making it difficult for the individual to walk. The affected patient also faces problems in activities such as jogging, climbing stairs, or running.
- Mild Dementia- An individual suffering from a brain issue also faces mild signs of dementia. Activities like concentrating, focusing, doing calculations, thinking, or making decisions are not easy for the affected person. It makes routine activities a hassle and irritates the person most of the day. The individual may also face memory loss.
- Loss of Bladder Control- The affected individual also loses control over bladder movements. Hence, one might feel a frequent urge to urinate or pass stools. Patients over 60 are highly affected by these symptoms making it difficult for such elders to perform their routine functions.

Treatment Options for Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Mentioned below are some of the Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus treatment options that help to lower the symptoms of the disorder:

- Medications- Medications such as acetazolamide are effective in patients who do not respond well to the shunt treatment. This drug helps reduce the production of cerebrospinal fluid.
- Shunt Treatment- The procedure involves inserting a pipe-like structure in the head to drain excess fluid from the ventricles. The fluid is then diverted towards the stomach or any other part of the body to absorb the fluid. The procedure is done with extreme care and proficiency, especially in the case of a child.
- Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy- It gets the name for the location where this procedure is carried out- in the pathway between the third and the fourth ventricle of the brain. The main aim of this procedure is to drain excess fluid from the brain ventricles. It helps in the proper functioning of the brain and allows smooth movement of arms and legs.
- Rehabilitation- After surgery, rehabilitation therapies, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, may be recommended to help individuals regain mobility, improve balance and coordination, and address any cognitive or functional deficits.

When to Consult a Doctor

Timely medical intervention can help cure many of these ailments or help in managing them. You can also get in touch with the expert Neurology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support to treat brain conditions, neurological disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is a brain disorder caused due to excess fluid in the brain ventricles blocking the way. It causes a restriction in the movement of hands, arms, legs, and feet. The individual is unable to think, concentrate, or make swift decisions. The condition can be healed with the help of medications and specific fluid-absorption treatment options.

FAQs

Q. What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus? A. It is a medical disorder caused due to excess amount of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles blocking them.

Q. What are the symptoms of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus? A. Difficulty walking, jogging, thinking, or making decisions and health issues such as headaches or vomiting can be caused due to the brain disorder.

Q. What is Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy A. It gets the name for the location where this procedure is carried out- in the pathway between the third and the fourth ventricle of the brain. The main aim of this procedure is to drain excess fluid from the brain ventricles. It helps in the proper functioning of the brain and allows smooth movement of arms and legs.

Q. What are the causes of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus? A. Brain tumours, subarachnoid haemorrhage, infection, meningitis, and head traumas are some of the causes of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/hydrocephalus-types-symptoms-signs-causes-and-treatment-options/
- https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-dementia/types-of-dementia/normal-pressure-hydrocephalus