Hydrocephalus Treatment

How is Hydrocephalus Diagnosed?

Hydrocephalus is diagnosed using brain scans, primarily CT and MRI. These scans can show a build-up of fluid in the brain, increased pressure and structural defects that may be causing the condition. Congenital hydrocephalus may sometimes be detected before birth through an ultrasound scan during pregnancy.

In the case of normal pressure hydrocephalus, doctors check your walking ability, mental functioning, and evidence of bladder control issues. They also take brain images. They might also recommend other tests, such as a lumbar puncture, lumbar drainage test, or lumbar infusion test, to see whether you might benefit from surgery. While a lumbar puncture measures CSF pressure, a lumbar infusion or lumbar drainage test helps to see how your brain responds, if symptoms improve or if pressures rise.

How is Hydrocephalus Treated Based on Severity?

Treatment for hydrocephalus varies depending on its severity and whether it is progressing, as outlined in the table below:

Note: The appropriate treatment is determined by a doctor based on the individual’s condition and progression.

Hydrocephalus Treatment Based on Stages

Treatment for hydrocephalus varies by stage and severity. It may involve emergency measures, surgical intervention, or long-term monitoring. The key stages and corresponding treatment approaches for hydrocephalus are outlined below.

Types of Hydrocephalus and Their Treatment

Hydrocephalus treatment depends on its type, underlying cause, and severity. Common treatment approaches for each type of hydrocephalus include:

Oral Medications for Hydrocephalus Treatment

Certain medicines may be used for short-term medical management of hydrocephalus by reducing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production. These are:

• Acetazolamide: This medicine may help lower CSF production and is considered the most suitable among the medical treatments discussed in the review. It may be used alone or along with furosemide.

• Furosemide: This diuretic may also reduce CSF production and can be used with acetazolamide in some cases.

Note: Oral medicines are not a replacement for definitive treatment when hydrocephalus requires surgery.

Other Treatments for Hydrocephalus

Other treatments for hydrocephalus may be considered depending on the cause and the individual situation. When a blockage is responsible, surgery may be used to address it and help restore normal CSF flow. An endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) may also be used to relieve pressure without requiring shunt replacement.

Another approach involves removing or cauterising brain regions that produce CSF. If there are signs of infection, antibiotics may be given, while a severe infection affecting a shunt may require removal of the shunt.

Ayurvedic and Alternative Treatments for Hydrocephalus

Ayurvedic and alternative approaches may provide supportive benefits alongside medical care for hydrocephalus. The herbs and their potential benefits for hydrocephalus are mentioned below.

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Its curcumin content helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting brain cells.

• Ginger (Zingiber officinale): By supporting healthy circulation, it also contributes to immune system support.

• Garlic (Allium sativum): Through its properties, garlic supports circulation and immune function.

• Lemon (Citrus medica): It supports detoxification and helps maintain a balanced internal environment.

• Honey (Pushpras): In addition to supporting digestion, it may aid nutrient absorption.

• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri): It supports cognitive function, memory and mental clarity.

• Sankhpushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis): This herb supports the nervous system, mental health, learning and memory.

• Kalihari (Gloriosa superba): Its stated benefits include helping alleviate inflammation and supporting healthy brain function.

Note: These herbs and supplements may offer supportive benefits. However, they should be used alongside appropriate medical care and not as a replacement for prescribed hydrocephalus treatment.

Home Care for Managing Hydrocephalus

Home care can help people manage symptoms, follow their treatment plan, and maintain their overall well-being while living with hydrocephalus. These home care tips may include:

• Track changes in symptoms and well-being.

• Stick to prescribed treatments and get routine health check-ups.

• Rest as much as possible, but do not overfatigue.

• Use a calendar, planner, or memos to help you manage your appointments.

• Reach out to and communicate with your family, friends, or a support group.

Note: These steps can make day-to-day life easier with hydrocephalus, but they should complement the treatment and advice provided by your healthcare team.

Latest Treatment for Hydrocephalus in India

The latest treatment approaches for hydrocephalus include established surgical procedures such as ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts, along with other surgical options selected according to the underlying cause and clinical condition. At the same time, newer approaches such as pharmacological therapies, gene therapy, and nano-based technologies are being investigated as potential treatment strategies.

These emerging therapies are at different stages of clinical research and may offer new options in the future. However, they are not yet established as routine treatments for hydrocephalus.

How Long Does Hydrocephalus Treatment Take?

The duration of hydrocephalus treatment varies with the procedure and type of hydrocephalus. Treatment timelines for hydrocephalus are tabulated below:

Note: The actual duration may vary depending on the type of hydrocephalus and the individual’s recovery.

Hydrocephalus Treatment Side Effects

The side effects of hydrocephalus treatment depend on the type of treatment and may include the following:

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Increased urination

• Dehydration

• Muscle twitches

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Shunt blockage or malfunction

• CSF leakage

• Nerve problems

• Seizures

• ETV hole closure

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Hydrocephalus

Lifestyle changes can support overall well-being while managing hydrocephalus. The key lifestyle practices are mentioned below:

• Drink enough water throughout the day to stay adequately hydrated.

• Follow a balanced diet with essential nutrients.

• Engage in regular physical activity as tolerated.

• Practise yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to reduce stress.

• Take proper rest and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

• Maintain a healthy balance between work, daily activities, and personal time.

Triggers that Can Worsen Symptoms of Hydrocephalus

Problems with CSF drainage or a shunt can cause hydrocephalus symptoms to return or worsen. Warning signs may include:

• Headache

• Double vision or sensitivity to light

• Nausea or vomiting

• Soreness of the neck or shoulder muscles

• Seizures

• Redness or tenderness along the shunt tract

• Low-grade fever

• Sleepiness or exhaustion

Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost

The average cost of hydrocephalus treatment in India is from ₹2 lakh to ₹4 lakh. Hydrocephalus treatment costs may vary by treatment type, required surgery, hospital, and surgeon. Additionally, it depends on the complications involved in the surgery. ETV surgery can cost about ₹2 lakh to ₹3.2 lakh. While VP shunt surgery can cost from ₹1 lakh to ₹2.4 lakh, neuroendoscopy can cost from ₹2 lakh to ₹6.5 lakh.

Apart from this, the cost of antiepileptic medicine ranges from ₹1.5 lakh to ₹2.5 lakh and OPD consultation costs can go up to ₹3,000 per visit.

Note: The overall expense can therefore vary considerably based on the treatment approach, hospital, duration of care, and individual patient requirements.

Does Health Insurance Cover Hydrocephalus Treatment in India?

Yes, most health insurance policies in India offer coverage for medical treatment for hydrocephalus, which will include hospitalisation costs, diagnostic tests like MRI and CT scans, surgery to treat the hydrocephalus, ICU care and follow-up treatment, as required by medical guidelines.

However, if hydrocephalus is diagnosed before you buy the policy, it is considered a pre-existing condition and a waiting period of typically 1 to 3 years has to be served before claims can be filed.

When opting for a suitable mediclaim policy for hydrocephalus treatment, consider a minimum sum insured of ₹15-20 lakh. You can even choose a higher coverage amount depending on your healthcare needs.