Our brain has a set of four interconnected cavities known as cerebral ventricles. These ventricles contain cerebrospinal fluid which act as shock absorber. Abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles results in abnormal enlargement of ventricles called normal pressure hydrocephalus.
Symptoms
- Difficulty walking such as slow walking, short step of walk, walking with feet spread apart, problems with balance and falls
- Slow thinking, lethargy, memory loss, forgetfulness, talking less, delayed response
- Urinary incontinence
Risk factors
- Elderly, over 60 years old
- Brain infection
- Meningeal hemorrhage
- It may occur with an unknown cause
Diagnosis
- Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess size of ventricles and to evaluate for other possible causes of hydrocephalus
- Lumbar puncture to measure CSF pressure and to see whether the patient show temporary improvement in walking and treatment response of patient after lumbar puncture
Treatment
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt: It is a surgical procedure involving placing a shunt in the brain to drain cerebrospinal fluid from the ventricles and redirect it to the abdomen. This procedure can improve symptoms such as abnormal gait, forgetfulness, and urinary incontinence. While they are rare, complications from ventriculoperitoneal shunts may include brain hemorrhage and infection.
If you notice that the senior people in your house are having difficulty walking and have trouble remembering things, don’t assume that this is normal for the elderly and just ignore it. Take action. You should take them to see a doctor to find out the exact cause and promptly address it.
