Idiopathic intracranial hypertension Flashcards
What is intracranial hypertension?
Increased pressure inside the skull
Intracranial hypertension means that the pressure of the fluid that surrounds the brain (cerebrospinal fluid or CSF) is too high
What are the main symptoms of intracranial hypertension?
Severe headache, which may be worse in the morning
Temporary or permanent vision loss
What are the causes for intracranial hypertension?
Blood clots due to severe head injury or stroke
Brain tumours
Brain infection
Hydrocephalus
How would you diagnose intracranial hypertension?
Examination of nerves and reflexes
Assessment of eyes and vision
CT or MRI
Lumbar puncture
How would you manage intracranial hypertension?
- Losing weight
- Stopping contraceptive medication
- Diuretics
- Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors to suppress the production of CSF (acetazolamide)
Surgery, if lifestyle changes and medication isn’t enough