Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

What is idiopathic intracranial hypertension?

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension refers to a condition where the pressure inside the skull is increased without a clear underlying cause, thus the name “idiopathic” which means of unknown origin.

This increase in pressure causes headaches and vision loss.

What causes idiopathic intracranial hypertension?

The exact cause of idiopathic intracranial hypertension is unknown, hence the name “idiopathic.”. But idiopathic intracranial hypertension is more common in females and people who have obesity.

Certain medicines seem to make some people more likely to get idiopathic intracranial hypertension. These medicines include tetracycline, high doses of vitamin A, and growth hormone.

What are the symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension?

The symptoms include:

●Bad headaches – Some people say the worst pain is right behind their eyes.

●Short periods of vision loss – This can happen in 1 or both eyes. It usually lasts a few seconds and might happen once in a while or several times a day.

●Dimming of vision

●Trouble seeing things at the edge of your line of sight

●Double vision

●Seeing flashing lights

●Noises inside your head – The noise might sound like rushing water or wind. It often pulses in time with your heartbeat and can come and go.

In rare cases, people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension lose their vision forever.

It is important to note that symptoms may vary in severity and frequency and that some individuals with idiopathic intracranial hypertension may not experience any symptoms at all.

Will I need tests?

Yes. Tests can include:

●Eye exam – An eye doctor will use special tools to look for swelling at the back of your eye, near the optic nerve . Most people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension have swelling of the optic nerve. The optic nerve connects the eye to the brain.

●Visual field test – This test checks how well you can see things that are at the edges of your line of sight. The test will be repeated from time to time to check your optic nerves.

●MRI or CT scan – These are imaging tests that take pictures of the inside of your brain. Your doctor can use them to check if a tumor or other problem is causing your symptoms.

●Lumbar puncture – During this procedure, a doctor puts a needle into your lower back to measure the fluid pressure inside your skull. A lumbar puncture is sometimes called a “spinal tap.”

How is idiopathic intracranial hypertension treated?

Treatment for idiopathic intracranial hypertension typically involves managing the symptoms and reducing the pressure inside the skull. This can be achieved by

●Weight loss – If you are overweight, your doctor will recommend healthy ways to lose weight. If you are very overweight and cannot lose weight through changing your diet and exercise habits, your doctor might recommend medicines or weight-loss surgery.

●Medicines – Your doctor might prescribe medicines that help lower the amount of spinal fluid your body makes. Spinal fluid is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. They might also recommend medicines used to prevent and treat headaches.

●Surgery – Doctors only do surgery if losing weight and taking medicines don’t help enough or problem at hand is serious enough to cause permanent damage

The kinds of surgery include:

•Shunting – In this surgery, a doctor puts a device called a “shunt” into a fluid-filled space inside your brain. The shunt is connected to a tube that is placed under your skin and that empties into your belly. The shunt helps drain the extra spinal fluid from your brain and can relieve the pressure.

•Optical nerve sheath fenestration – In this surgery, a doctor cuts a tiny, window-like hole in the tissue that covers the optic nerve. This helps lower pressure on the nerve to help save your vision.

Can idiopathic intracranial hypertension lead to permanent vision loss?

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension can lead to vision loss, and in some cases, the vision loss can be permanent. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent and manage vision loss in people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Regular eye exams and monitoring of symptoms can help identify vision problems early and allow for prompt treatment. In severe cases, vision loss may not be reversible, but prompt treatment can help prevent further vision loss and prevent other complications. If you have any vision worsening please refer to your doctor as quickly as possible.

What is my doctor monitoring for in my follow up visits?

1. Visual symptoms: Regular eye exams should be performed to monitor for changes in vision, such as blurred or double vision, and to detect any vision loss early.
2. Pressure inside the skull: Regular neurological exams and imaging tests (such as lumbar puncture or MRI) may be performed to monitor the pressure inside the skull.
3. Body weight: People with IIH should monitor their body weight and work with their healthcare provider to maintain a healthy weight, as being overweight or obese is a risk factor for IIH.
4. Medication use: People taking medications for IIH should monitor for any side effects and report any changes to their doctor.
5. Symptoms: People with IIH should monitor their symptoms, such as headaches and neck pain, and report any changes to their doctor.

What diet should I take if I am suffering from Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension?

A diet to manage idiopathic intracranial hypertension may involve reducing sodium intake and maintaining a healthy weight. Some specific dietary recommendations for people with this condition may include:

• Limiting foods high in salt and sodium, such as processed foods and fast food
• Choosing fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Eating lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, and legumes
• Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Avoiding carbonated drinks and high-sugar beverages

It is important to speak with your doctor or registered dietitian before making any major dietary changes, as they can help create an individualized plan that is safe and effective. Additionally, some people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension may need to limit their fluid intake and follow a low-fluid diet, so it’s important to discuss this with doctor.

Can idiopathic intracranial hypertension be cured?

There is no cure for idiopathic intracranial hypertension, but the condition can be managed with medical treatment and lifestyle changes. The goal of treatment is to reduce the pressure inside the skull and prevent further vision loss and other complications. In some cases, the condition may resolve on its own, but this is not always the case.

What is the prognosis for people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension?

The prognosis for people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension varies and depends on a number of factors, including the severity of symptoms, the presence of any underlying medical conditions, and the effectiveness of treatment. With proper treatment and management, most people with idiopathic intracranial hypertension are able to manage their symptoms and prevent further vision loss. In some cases, the condition may resolve on its own, but this is not always the case. Regular monitoring and treatment are important to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

In severe cases, vision loss may be permanent, and there is a risk of other complications, including chronic headaches, neck pain, and tinnitus. It is important to discuss the prognosis with your doctor.

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