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Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the spaces of the brain, raising pressure inside the skull. It can be present from birth or develop later, and often needs surgery to drain the fluid.
Causes & risk factors
- A blockage in the flow of brain fluid
- Present from birth (congenital)
- After bleeding in the brain
- After infection such as meningitis
- After a head injury or with a tumour
Common symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Drowsiness or confusion
- Balance and walking problems
- In babies, a rapidly growing head
Tests & diagnosis
- CT scan of the brain
- MRI brain
- Head ultrasound (in babies)
Treatment & management
- Surgery to drain excess fluid, usually with a shunt
- An alternative keyhole procedure in selected cases
- Treating the underlying cause
- Regular follow-up to check the shunt is working
- Rehabilitation and support as needed
When to see a doctor urgently
- Severe headache with vomiting, drowsiness or confusion — call your local emergency number now
- In a baby, a bulging soft spot, rapidly enlarging head or poor feeding — seek urgent care
- Someone with a shunt who becomes unwell, drowsy or has a headache — get urgent review (possible blockage)
- New or worsening balance and walking problems
Frequently asked questions
What is a shunt?
A shunt is a thin tube surgically placed to drain excess brain fluid to another part of the body, where it is absorbed. It relieves pressure and needs occasional monitoring for blockage or infection.
Can hydrocephalus be cured?
It is usually managed rather than cured, most often with a shunt that controls the fluid build-up. With treatment many people do well, and follow-up ensures the shunt keeps working.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.