Increase Intracraneal Pressure
ANSWERS
Growing pressure inside your skull can be caused by a brain injury or another medical condition. Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a dangerous condition that can cause a headache. The pressure can also cause further damage to your brain or spinal cord.
This is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of recovery.
What factors contribute to ICP?
ICP causes include:
Excessive cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid around your brain and spinal cord)
The brain is bleeding.
Brain enlargement
Aneurysm
Blood pooling in a portion of the brain
Injuries to the brain or head
Tumors of the brain
Infections like encephalitis and meningitis
Hydrocephalus
Blood pressure is high.
Stroke
What are the signs and symptoms of ICP?
The following are the most common ICP symptoms:
Headache
Vision impairment
I’m feeling a little less alert than usual.
Vomiting
Changes in your behavior Weakness or difficulty moving or speaking
Sleepiness or a lack of energy
ICP symptoms can mimic those of other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.
How is ICP identified?
Your doctor may perform the following tests to determine ICP:
Medical history and physical examination, which may include a neurological exam to assess senses, balance, and mental status
A spinal tap (also known as a lumbar puncture) is a procedure that measures the pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid.
The gold standard imaging test, computed tomography (CT), generates a series of cross-sectional X-ray images of the head and brain.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (used after the initial assessment) detects subtle changes in brain tissue content using magnetic fields and can provide more detail than X-rays or CT scans.
How is ICP managed?
An increase in intracranial pressure is a medical emergency. Treatment options include:
Anti-inflammation medication
Extra cerebrospinal fluid drainage or brain bleeding
Craniotomy is the removal of a portion of the skull to relieve swelling (though this is rare)
The underlying cause of your intracranial pressure, which could be an infection, high blood pressure, tumor, or stroke, may also be treated.
What are the ICP complications?
ICP has several serious complications, including:
Seizures
Stroke
Neurological harm
Death
Can ICP be avoided?
You can lower your chances of developing ICP due to underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, or infection. If you experience any of the symptoms, seek medical attention right away.
When should I contact my physician?
If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or 911 immediately:
Extensive headache
Vision impairment
I’m feeling a little less alert than usual.
Vomiting
Behavior Modifications
Weaknesses or difficulties moving or speaking
Sleepiness or a lack of energy
Seizure
QUESTION
Increase Intracraneal Pressure
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