𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 & 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬

9. Hydrocephalus

"Hydrocephalus is an abnormal buildup of fluid in the cavities (ventricles) deep within the brain. The excess fluid increases the size of the ventricles and puts pressure on the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid normally flows through the ventricles and bathes the brain and spinal column."

Mayoclinic's description above is pretty accurate. Although there is a lot more info to be found on this neurological condition.

I don't have it myself so most of what this chapter will include is information I've received from other people as well as extensive research I've done. So if I missed something or something didn't sound right, please don't hesitate to let me know so that I can edit it.

Cerebrospinal fluid is produced in different areas of the brain, specifically the ventricles and the choroid plexus. It circulates through the ventricular system in the brain and is absorbed into the bloodstream. This fluid is in constant circulation and has many functions, including to surround the brain and spinal cord and act as a protective cushion against injury. It contains nutrients and proteins necessary for the nourishment and normal function of the brain, and carries waste products away from surrounding tissues.

Hydrocephalus, though, usually occurs when there is an imbalance between the amount of fluid that is produced and the rate at which the brain can absorb it. As it builds up, it causes the ventricles to enlarge and the pressure inside the head to increase causing swelling in the brain.

It can affect anyone at any age - infants, children, teens, older adults. There are some that are born with it but also people who get it through brain injuries sustained in accidents.

Even though it's a very obscure condition as far as knowledge and awareness of it, it actually affects over a million people in the United States alone! But sadly, a lot of Americans don't receive a correct diagnosis when it comes to Hydrocephalus.

Physical signs and symptoms can include headaches, blurred/double vision, sleepiness, nausea, irritability, unstable balance, and even poor coordination.

So far, no cure has been found for Hydrocephalus and it is currently classified as a chronic condition. Although, thankfully, it can be controlled and people who have had early treatment tend to lead fairly normal lives with few limitations.

But Hydrocephalus that is present at birth can cause long-term complications for children as they age such as learning disorders and spatial/perceptual disorders. These disorders are not typically seen in older adults who manifest symptoms of the condition.

For all the bad though, there are brighter spots - for example, some people with Hydrocephalus have been found to have above-average intelligence.

Although there are two types of the condition - communicating and non-communicating (obstructive). Both forms are either congenital or acquired.

Communicating hydrocephalus, also known as non-obstructive hydrocephalus, is caused by impaired fluid reabsorption in the absence of any obstruction of fluid flow between the ventricles.

And non-communicating hydrocephalus, or obstructive hydrocephalus, is caused stricly by a fluid flow obstruction.

Even though awareness seems to be limited, studies have seemingly not been. Currently, there is an association for the condition as well as medical literature for it dating back to Ancient Egypt and Greece eras.

Hopefully, soon, though, there will be more awareness and even more studies done so that a permanent cure can be found to help those who suffer.

Thanks so much for reading this chapter, I hope that I did the condition justice and that y'all enjoyed reading. Maybe you found out something new today - I know I did while writing this :) Next up, I'll be talking about Bipolar Disorder. Hope y'all will check it out :)