Hydrocephalus
About the disease & condition
Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of the brain, leading to increased intracranial pressure and potential brain damage.
Known Symptoms
- Infants: Rapid head growth, bulging fontanelle, vomiting, lethargy, “sunsetting” eyes.
Children/adults: Headache, nausea/vomiting, blurred vision, gait instability, cognitive decline, urinary incontinence (especially in iNPH). - Red flags: Signs of increased intracranial pressure (e.g., papilledema, bradycardia, altered mental status).
Known Causes
- Obstructive (non-communicating): Blockage of CSF flow within the ventricular system (e.g., aqueductal stenosis, tumor compression).
- Communicating: Impaired CSF absorption at the arachnoid villi (e.g., post-hemorrhagic, post-meningitic, or idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus, iNPH).
- Overproduction (rare): Choroid plexus papilloma.
Pathophysiology: Imbalance between CSF production, flow, and absorption results in ventricular dilation and increased intracranial pressure.
Care
- Prevention: Early treatment of infections (e.g., meningitis), management of prematurity-related IVH. No primary prevention for congenital cases.
- Follow-up: Lifelong monitoring for shunt-dependent patients (symptoms of malfunction/infection).
Regular neuroimaging and developmental assessments (in pediatric cases). Multidisciplinary care (neurosurgery, neurology, rehabilitation).
Relevant Specialities
Our Doctors
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General Medicine
Dr. Aayat Kadhem
General Practitioner
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Here for you, every step of the way
Healthcare can feel overwhelming at times. At KIMSHEALTH Bahrain, we believe care should be transparent and supportive, allowing you to move forward with confidence and comfort. You deserve care you can trust, delivered with understanding and respect.
Our medical teams bring together advanced expertise with a deeply human approach to care. From everyday care to highly specialised treatment, we ensure you feel informed, reassured, and supported throughout your journey - so your experience with us is seamless and secure.
Our medical teams bring together advanced expertise with a deeply human approach to care. From everyday care to highly specialised treatment, we ensure you feel informed, reassured, and supported throughout your journey - so your experience with us is seamless and secure.
Hospital
Key Specialties
Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedic, General surgery, Pediatrics, Emergency and more
Learn more about this facility
33
Doctors
80
Beds
13
Services
2020
Established in
