Helping You Find Relief From NPH
When it comes to normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), you can count on our experienced team to help you understand your condition and treatments that may work, all with your whole-person health at the center of our focus.
Because while some providers may treat NPH like any other age-related condition, that’s not how we see it. We’ll share unique options with you for treating your condition, so you can get back to living your best life.
What to Know About Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
- What Is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?
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A clear liquid called cerebrospinal fluid (also abbreviated to CSF) cushions your brain and protects it from injury. Sometimes, bleeding in the brain or infection can trigger a buildup in CSF that puts pressure on your brain and can lead to serious health issues.
- What Are the Symptoms?
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Normal pressure hydrocephalus can be hard to identify because it isn’t as common as other neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease. Because normal pressure hydrocephalus shares many neurological symptoms with conditions often associated with aging, it can be mistaken for natural aging.
Symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus can include:
- Confusion
- Difficulty walking
- Inability to focus
- Short-term memory loss
- Urinary incontinence
- How Is It Diagnosed?
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Most times, your family physician will perform a medical history evaluation and a physical exam to see how you walk. If further testing is needed, you may be referred to a specialist for screenings, such as:
- Imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), help doctors examine your skull and translate radiographic images to a computer screen that can reveal brain damage
- Neuropsychological testing allows your physician to observe your problem-solving skills
- How Is It Treated?
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For most treatments, your physician will extract some of the built-up cerebrospinal fluid liquid.
Some procedures to do this include:
External lumbar drainage
In this procedure, your physician will remove some of your excess cerebrospinal fluid through a hollow tube called a catheter placed into your spine. If needed, your surgeon may insert a long, thin, hollow tube called a shunt into your body to redirect cerebrospinal fluid from your brain toward your abdomen, where it can flow as a natural part of your circulatory process. Shunts usually remain implanted and provide everyday relief.
Spinal Tap
This method allows your physician to extract some of your excess cerebrospinal fluid through a needle that your physician enters into the affected region.
Compassionate Providers, Innovative Approaches
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World-Class Experts
Because normal pressure hydrocephalus can be easily misdiagnosed, we’ve recruited experts that can accurately identify and treat it.
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Better Diagnoses
Our team is building off the success of our diagnoses and treatment options — and continues to push the boundaries of how we can better care for you.
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Complete Care Across Specialties
Your team includes a robust lineup of specialists, each bringing unique expertise, so your experience is managed by the most comprehensive group of providers possible.
Your Tools for Success
Hear from patients like you and stay informed on the latest resources to help you through your care experience.
Your Journey, Your Guide
A diagnosis often leads to multiple appointments, treatment options and financial obligations. Your care team will walk you through each step, so you can focus on getting better.