Question 1

mri indicated enlarged vessels in brain and likely adult onset hydrocephalus but more recent csf flow study indicated no detection of adult onset hydrocephalus--why the discrepancy?

Accepted Answer

: When the lateral ventricles appear enlarged in an older person, it may be due to central atrophy, or sometimes Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).  Classic symptoms of NPH, are gait disturbance (trouble walking) often confused with parkinson's, Dementia, and Bladder control issues. The CSF flow study suggests it's not NPH, but no test is perfect. If symptomatic I'd suggest further evaluation.

Question 2

are shunt operations for adult hydrocephalus patients usually completely successful?

Accepted Answer

Depends on Diagnosis: There are several types of hydrocephalus in adults. Shunting is typically most successful in patients with acquired hydrocephalus (e.g., hydrocephalus from a brain tumor, bleed, etc) and much less successful in patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus. You will need to further discuss this subject with your neurosurgeon

Question 3

how long does it take for an adult to recover from shunt surgery for hydrocephalus?

Accepted Answer

Week: If the shunt is working appropritely then the intial symptoms , ie headache, ataxia, bladder issues will resolve quickly. The obdominal incision whether open or laparoscopic will become increasingly pain free over that same week.

Question 4

i have hydrocephalus diagnosed as an adult. i have a shunt. how can i improve my walking?

Accepted Answer

: Generically, have a complete physical therapy evaluation and see if that approach might help.  Eventually, an exercise program can be instituted.  Also, enlist the advice of your neurosurgeon.

Question 5

i was diagnosed with hydrocephalus 2 weeks ago and am awaiting mr dr's return from vacation.  is it safe for me to fly commercially on a 6 hr flight?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Likely they suspect NPH? Would then say OK, headaches, nausea or vomiting - go to the ER.

Question 6

i'm a young adult just incidentally diagnosed with compensated obstructive hydrocephalus due to aqueductal stenosis; no intervention was recommended, but are there any risks or implications i should be aware of?

Accepted Answer

: You may do well for several years but should have ongoing serial MRI studies to exclude progressive hydrocephalus and increasing intracranial pressure.  Hopefully, you will have a neurosurgeon following you on an ongoing basis.

Question 7

can i fly if i have hydrocephalus ?  i have a vp shunt.  i also have vertigo

Accepted Answer

You should be able: You should be able but best to check with your physician. The dizziness needs  clarification.  It may be related.

Question 8

what are the symptoms of hydrocephalus in a previously normal adult?

Accepted Answer

Variable: Hydrocephalus in a previously normal adult can present with headaches, memory problems, imbalance or visual symptoms. Acute hydrocephalus can cause lethargy and coma if severe and untreated.

Question 9

could an infant fly if he or she has hydrocephalus ?

Accepted Answer

Hydrocephalus: There are no contraindications for an infant flying with hydrocephalus as long as the child is medically stable.

Question 10

what causes hydrocephalus in adults?

Accepted Answer

Hydrocephalus: It is blockage of the flow of fluid in the brain. Meningitis, tumor, traumatic head injury, subarachnoid hemorrhage, cranial surgery, or medications have been implicated.  In children it can be due to premature birth or genetic defects - that blocks flow (aqueductal stenosis). Apparently, often the cause is not determined. With early treatment "many lead normal lives with few limitations.".

Get Virtual Care

For Businesses

About Us

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Doctor answers about:

Adult onset hydrocephalus and flying in an airplane

A member asked:

Mri indicated enlarged vessels in brain and likely adult onset hydrocephalus but more recent csf flow study indicated no detection of adult onset hydrocephalus--why the discrepancy?

A member asked:

Are shunt operations for adult hydrocephalus patients usually completely successful?

A member asked:

How long does it take for an adult to recover from shunt surgery for hydrocephalus?

A member asked:

I have hydrocephalus diagnosed as an adult. i have a shunt. how can i improve my walking?

A member asked:

I was diagnosed with hydrocephalus 2 weeks ago and am awaiting mr dr's return from vacation. is it safe for me to fly commercially on a 6 hr flight?

A member asked:

I'm a young adult just incidentally diagnosed with compensated obstructive hydrocephalus due to aqueductal stenosis; no intervention was recommended, but are there any risks or implications i should be aware of?

A member asked:

Can i fly if i have hydrocephalus ? i have a vp shunt. i also have vertigo

A member asked:

What are the symptoms of hydrocephalus in a previously normal adult?

A member asked:

Could an infant fly if he or she has hydrocephalus ?

A member asked:

What causes hydrocephalus in adults?

HealthTap Online Primary Care Doctors Accepting New Patients

Telemedicine

Primary Care

Manage Your Conditions

Women's Health

Children's Health

Men's Health

Senior Health

Wellness, Prevention & Lifestyle

Sexual Health

Mental & Behavioral Health

Travel Medicine

Urgent Care

Didn't find what you're looking for?

More of what we treat

Allergies

Antibiotics

Asthma

High Blood Pressure

Prescriptions

Type 2 Diabetes

For Businesses

Company

Health Content

Join Us

Download HealthTap

Questions?