|
|
Headaches Due To Changes in Intracranial Pressure
|
 |
Benign Intracranial Hypertension ("pseudotumor cerebri") affects young, overweight women on medications, such as oral contraceptives, tetracycline, certain steroids, or vitamin A. Though "pseudotumor" translated means "false tumor", this condition does not involve the presence of tumors on the brain -- only an increase in pressure(N) on the brain.
|
 |
The cause of this type of Headache is unclear; however, there is always a presence of the following:
abnormal absorption of excess production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which leads to a build-up of this fluid in the brain;
a higher volume of blood in the vessels around the brain;
a swelling of the brain.
CT scan and measurement of the CSF pressure(N) via spinal tap (also known as a lumbar puncture).
|
|
|
Treatment is symptomatic. Drugs such as Corticosteroids may be used to reduce pressure in the brain. Removing excess fluid with repeated spinal taps or by surgical procedures, such as shunting, may be used to reduce fluid buildup.
|
| | |
If you want your friend to read or know about this article, Click here
 |
|
|
