We go through life not thinking about the conditions that many deals with that are life-threatening. However, at times we or a loved one may be diagnosed with a condition that causes severe symptoms and shortens our lifespan. A prime example of this is Hydrocephalus. Starting treatment for this early is vital to increasing the chances of living a longer life. So if you are seeking hydrocephalus treatment in St James, Dr. Symeon Missios can help you get started now!
What is Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is the buildup of fluid in the ventricles deep within the brain. This results in the excess fluid, causing the ventricles to increase in size and pressure the brain. Typically, cerebrospinal fluid flows through the ventricles and bathes the brain and spinal cord. However, the force of too much cerebrospinal fluid associated with Hydrocephalus can damage brain tissue and cause brain function problems.
Hydrocephalus is not a condition that only develops at a later stage of life, as 1 out of every 770 babies develop it. This means that this condition is just as common as Down syndrome. No matter the age you are, this condition is serious and needs to be treated by a medical professional immediately. If you need hydrocephalus treatment in St James, Dr. Symeon Missios is here to help you begin treatment!
Symptoms of Hydrocephalus
The symptoms of Hydrocephalus will vary by the age of the person when this condition occurs. The main symptoms that go with all age groups are the following;
- Poor eating
- Irritability
- Problems with Strength
- Blurred or Double Vision
- Sluggishness
- Loss of Bladder Control
- Decline in Memory
- Headache
- Poor Coordination or Balance
If you begin to see these symptoms, you need to see a doctor to receive a professional diagnosis. Rather than waiting, beginning treatment early for this condition can help save your quality of life! So if you are seeking hydrocephalus treatment in St James, our office can help you mitigate your symptoms.
Treatments: Hydrocephalus Treatment in St James
Currently, there are only two forms of treatment available. While they are both surgeries, they both have been found to increase the survival rate of those patients.
- Shunt: This is the most common surgery for this condition, in which a drainage system is inserted. The job of the shunt is to keep the fluid flowing in the right direction and at the correct rate.
- Endoscopic third ventriculostomy: In this surgery, the surgeon uses a small video camera to see inside your brain. While in there, the surgeon makes a hole to allow for the cerebrospinal fluid to flow out of the brain.
However, with any surgery comes the potential for complications. Regarding the shunt system, the drain could potentially stop draining the fluid or poorly regulate drainage because of mechanical problems, blockage, or infections.
Despite the treatment for Hydrocephalus having made progress over the past 20 years, there currently is no cure for this condition but rather a long-term treatment. If you or anyone you know needs an expert diagnosis and treatment plan and are seeking hydrocephalus treatment in St James, Dr. Symeon Missios is here to develop the plan that provides the most benefit.