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Facts about
Hydrocephalus |
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Hydrocephalus literally means, “water on the brain”. It occurs when the fluid in the brain cannot drain into the circulatory system as it should. Instead, it collects in the skull and causes a swelling of the head and possible damage.
Some children born with hydrocephalus have defective or blocked blood vessels in the brain that prevent the fluid from draining properly. This may first appear as a bulging in the fontanels, or soft spots. As an infant’s skull is not fused but is rather flexible to aid in the birthing process and growth, infants with hydrocephalus may have an abnormally large head that grows quite quickly. This condition occurs in some premature births. Symptoms may include poor feeding habits, irritability, lethargy, and vomiting.
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Challenges |
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Older children may develop this condition after an infection, brain tumor, or head injury. Children may complain of nausea, neck pain, walking difficulty, double vision, delayed growth, vomiting, headache, or sleepiness. Hydrocephalus may be life-threatening if not treated. |
Treatment |
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All children suffering from hydrocephalus need medical treatment.
Treatment usually consists of placing drainage tubes in the brain to divert the fluid into the abdominal cavity. These tubes (known as shunts) may need to be replaced as the child grows.
Following shunt placement, especially if the pressure on the brain has not been for an extended period, most children go on to lead active and full lives. |
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Articles On
Hydrocephalus |
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