Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a type of hydrocephalus that primarily affects older adults, typically those over the age of 60.
NPH is characterized by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain's ventricles, leading to an increase in intracranial pressure. The condition is called "normal pressure" because the pressure inside the skull may not rise to levels typically seen in other forms of hydrocephalus. The exact cause of NPH is not fully understood, but it is thought to be associated with underlying conditions such as head injury, stroke, or bleeding in the brain.
Signs and symptoms
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) can cause a wide range of symptoms, and these can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual affected.
The classic triad of symptoms seen in NPH are:
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Gait disturbance: This is the most common symptom of NPH, and it typically involves a shuffling gait, balance problems, and difficulty initiating movements. Individuals may have difficulty walking, and their steps may become shorter and slower. They may also have a tendency to fall backward.
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Dementia: NPH can cause changes in cognitive function, including memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and confusion. Individuals may have difficulty with activities of daily living, and they may become forgetful or disoriented.
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Urinary incontinence: NPH can also cause changes in bladder function, leading to urinary frequency, urgency, and incontinence.
Other symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, and visual changes such as double vision or blurred vision.
It is important to note that these symptoms can be caused by other conditions as well, and not all individuals with NPH will have all of these symptoms.