Hydrocephalus Treatment

Hydrocephalus is the excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles of your brain. This extra fluid causes your ventricles to dilate, putting harmful pressure on your brain’s tissues. There is currently no cure for hydrocephalus, but it can be treated. For hydrocephalus treatment in India, immediate CSF fluid drainage is arranged by surgically inserting a tube or shunt to drain out the excess fluid. This tube is monitored until the symptoms subside, and the patient is regularly monitored. Diuretic medications are administered to help flush out the excess fluid.

Hydrocephalus treatment cost in India is less expensive than in other countries such as the United States and Europe. Indian hospitals provide affordable healthcare packages with the assurance of excellent treatment quality.

What Is Hydrocephalus?

The abnormal buildup of fluid within your brain is known as hydrocephalus. The term “hydrocephalus” is derived from the Greek words “hydro” (water) and “cephalus” (head). Hydrocephalus was previously referred to as “water on the brain.” Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord.

CSF normally flows through the ventricles in your brain. CSF acts as nutrient delivery and waste removal system for your brain. CSF bathes your brain and spinal cord, protecting and cushioning them from injury. CSF is then reabsorbed into your bloodstream.

Every day, your body produces the CSF it requires and then reabsorbs the same amount. When the normal flow or absorption of CSF is blocked, however, a buildup of CSF can occur. As the CSF accumulates, the ventricles enlarge. This increases the pressure inside your head. Too much CSF pressure can prevent your brain from functioning normally.

The Four Main Types of Hydrocephalus:

Communicating hydrocephalus
Non-communicating hydrocephalus
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)
Hydrocephalus ex-vacuo

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Hydrocephalus?

In Infants:

Unusually large size of the head
Increasing head circumference
Bulging, tense soft spot (fontanelle)
Prominent scalp veins
Sunset sign (downward deviation of eyes)
Irritability
Sleepiness
Seizures

In Children and Adolescents:

Nausea and vomiting
Papilledema (optic disc swelling)
Blurred or double vision
Developmental delay
Personality changes
Loss of concentration
Gait and balance issues
Appetite loss
Seizures
Bladder incontinence

In Adults:

Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Walking or balance issues
Coordination issues
Fatigue
Vision difficulties
Bladder incontinence
Cognitive difficulty, memory loss, mild dementia

What Exactly Causes Hydrocephalus?

Congenital Hydrocephalus:

Spina bifida and other neural tube defects
Aqueductal stenosis
Premature birth complications (intraventricular bleeding)
Infections during pregnancy (rubella)

Acquired Hydrocephalus:

Head trauma
Stroke
Brain or spinal cord tumors
Meningitis or infections
Hemorrhage
Surgical complications

Normal pressure hydrocephalus may occur without a known cause.

Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost In India

Factors That Can Affect Hydrocephalus Treatment Cost:

Medication costs
Duration of treatment
Geographical location
Hospitalization expenses
Government policies and subsidies
Medical tourism packages
Hospital reputation and infrastructure
Expertise of medical professionals
Diagnostic procedures frequency and type
Choice of treatment modality

India offers quality treatment at a fraction of international costs with top doctors and hospitals.

How is Hydrocephalus Diagnosed?

Neurological examination
Imaging: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI

In Adults:

Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
ICP monitoring (intracranial pressure)
Fundoscopic exam (optic nerve exam)

Imaging Tests:

Ultrasound
MRI
CT Scan

Note: CT is less detailed and used mostly in emergencies.

Procedure

What Are the Treatment Options for Hydrocephalus Patients?

Surgery is the primary option to redirect CSF flow and relieve pressure.

1. VP Shunt Surgery:

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt
Tube with valve placed from ventricle to abdomen or heart
Valve regulates CSF flow

2. Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV):

Alternative to VP shunt
Creates a hole in brain floor for fluid to drain naturally
Suitable for obstructive hydrocephalus

Not all patients are candidates for ETV.

Cost Influences:

Condition severity
Hospital and surgeon choice
Duration of stay
Type of room
Additional procedures required

Complications of Hydrocephalus Surgery

Shunt failure, breakage, or infection
ETV failure

Watch for:

Headache
Vision issues
Vomiting or nausea
Fatigue
Neck/shoulder muscle pain
Seizures
Redness/tenderness near shunt
Low-grade fever

Suggestion

Many live normal lives post-surgery. Success varies individually. Follow-up and monitoring are essential. Children need special care to support development.

How Can Global Care India Help?

Matches patients with verified doctors and hospitals
Helps design a budget-friendly treatment plan
Assists with travel, visas, authorizations, and more

The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can Hydrocephalus Be Permanently Cured?
A: No, but it can be managed with surgery and monitoring.

Q: Is It Possible to Treat Hydrocephalus Without Surgery?
A: No current cure exists. Surgery is the main treatment.

Q: What Medicines Treat Hydrocephalus?
A: In neonates, acetazolamide and furosemide may reduce CSF secretion.

Q: Can You Lead a Normal Life If You Have Hydrocephalus?
A: Yes, if treated early and monitored regularly.

Q: Does Hydrocephalus Affect Memory?
A: Yes, especially in normal pressure hydrocephalus—attention, working memory, and executive function may be affected.