Hydrocephalus
Explained for Kids
Imagine your head is like a water balloon. Inside that balloon, there’s a special liquid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that helps keep everything safe and cozy. But sometimes, that fluid can build up too much, like when you put too much water in a balloon. When this happens, it’s called hydrocephalus. Now, when there’s too much fluid in your head, it can make you feel uncomfortable like your head might feel really full or you might have headaches. Sometimes, it can even make your head look bigger than usual!
Doctors can help by putting in a special tube called a shunt. It’s like a little pipe that helps drain the extra fluid out of your head and into another part of your body where it won’t cause any trouble. With the help of the shunt, you’ll feel much better, and your head will be just the right size again!
Explained for Parents
Hydrocephalus is a condition where there’s too much fluid in the brain. This fluid, called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), normally cushions the brain and spinal cord. But when there’s too much of it, it can put pressure on the brain and cause problems. Hydrocephalus can occur from a blockage that prevents the fluid from flowing properly or when the body makes too much fluid. Sometimes, it’s present at birth, and other times, it develops later due to infections or other issues.
Symptoms of hydrocephalus can include a rapid increase in head size, bulging soft spot (fontanelle), irritability, changes in eyes, vomiting and seizures. Diagnostic imaging like ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs are used to diagnose hydrocephalus and determine the best course of action. Treatment for hydrocephalus often involves surgery to insert a shunt. A shunt is a thin tube that helps drain the excess fluid from the brain to another part of the body, where it can be absorbed and eliminated safely. In some cases, other procedures or medications may be used instead of or in addition to shunt placement. While hydrocephalus can be a serious condition, with proper treatment and monitoring, many children with hydrocephalus can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.