Adult Onset Hydrocephalus [View all]

[UglyGreed]

Just thought since I whine about Hydrocephalus here I should provide a link explaining the infliction.

http://www.aans.org/patient%20information/conditions%20and%20treatments/adult%20onset%20hydrocephalus.aspx

What Is Hydrocephalus?

The term hydrocephalus is derived from two words: "hydro," meaning water, and "cephalus," referring to the head.

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up within the ventricles (fluid-containing cavities) of the brain and may increase pressure within the head. Although hydrocephalus often is described as "water on the brain," the "water" actually is CSF — a clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. CSF has three crucial functions: 1) it acts as a "shock absorber" for the brain and spinal cord; 2) it acts as a vehicle for delivering nutrients to the brain and removing waste; and 3) it flows between the cranium and spine to regulate changes in pressure within the brain.

The average adult produces about one pint of CSF daily. When an injury or illness alters the circulation of CSF, one or more of the ventricles becomes enlarged as CSF accumulates. In an adult, the skull is rigid and cannot expand, so the pressure in the brain may increase profoundly.

Hydrocephalus is a chronic condition. It can be controlled, but usually not cured. With appropriate early treatment, however, many people with hydrocephalus lead normal lives with few limitations.

Hydrocephalus can occur at any age, but is most common in infants and adults age 60 and older. It affects adult males and females, as well as people of different races, about equally. Experts believe that normal pressure hydrocephalus accounts for five to six percent of all dementia cases.