Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is a rare condition that causes an unexplained increase of pressure in the skull, leading to painful headaches and vision problems. It’s unknown why this occurs, and many patients try to find relief with medication and lifestyle changes to no avail. However, minimally invasive surgical procedures can reduce or eliminate your symptoms much quicker when other treatment options have failed to provide good results.
Education Center
Fluid in the Brain or IIH can now be treated with minimally invasive procedure.
Women 20-40 are at risk for Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension
Blurry or Loss of Vision may not be a problem with your eyes. IIH in the brain could be the cause.
What Causes Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension?
Some causes of intracranial hypertension are known. For example, some people may have a build-up of pressure around the brain after a severe head injury. Others may experience intracranial hypertension due to health conditions such as a stroke, blood clot, or tumor.
However, if you have idiopathic intracranial hypertension, the exact cause is unknown. In people with this condition, CSF builds up for no apparent reason. This type of intracranial hypertension is rare but more likely to occur in younger women with excess weight.
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension Symptoms
The symptoms of IIH can vary from person to person. The most common symptom is a sudden, severe headache that can be felt in the front of the head or behind the eyes. Some people may also experience changes in vision, such as seeing double or blind spots. Other symptoms of IIH include:
- Headaches
- Vision problems
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Neck and shoulder pain
Previously Called Pseudotumor Cerebri Treatment
Some of the symptoms of IIH can be similar to those of a brain tumor, such as headaches, vision changes, and nausea. An outdated name for this condition is pseudotumor cerebri, which means “false brain tumor.” However, it’s important to note that IIH is not caused by a brain tumor, which is the growth of abnormal cells within the brain.
If you are experiencing symptoms consistent with either IIH or a brain tumor, your healthcare provider can perform a thorough evaluation and diagnostic tests to find the underlying cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Why Choose Interventional & Vascular Partners?
When it comes to treating IIH, patients want to ensure they are receiving the best care possible. At Vascular & Interventional Partners, our team of highly skilled interventional radiologists uses a multidisciplinary approach and the latest techniques to provide relief from the symptoms of increased cranial pressure. Our state-of-the-art facility in Scottsdale, AZ, is equipped with the latest technology and diagnostic tools to ensure optimal outcomes.
Our doctors have extensive experience in a wide range of minimally invasive interventional procedures. If you or a loved one are suffering from IIH, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team to learn more about how we can help. Contact us by clicking here to complete our online form or call our office at 480-435-9100 to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the recovery after IIH treatment?
The recovery period after IIH treatment can vary depending on the type of treatment received. For some procedures, such as lumbar punctures, there is little to no downtime. However, for more invasive procedures like shunt placement, recovery can take longer.
During the recovery period, patients may experience symptoms such as headaches, nausea and fatigue. It's important to follow your doctor's post-treatment instructions closely to ensure proper healing and minimize any potential risks or complications. Our team will provide you with detailed information on what to expect during your recovery.
What is the success rate of IIH treatment?
The success rate of IIH treatment varies depending on the severity of your condition and the medical treatment method used. However, many patients see significant improvement in their symptoms after treatment. The success rate of medication therapy ranges from 50-80%, while the success rate of surgical treatments, such as optic nerve sheath fenestration and CSF shunting, ranges from 70-90%.
What are the potential risks or complications of IIH treatment?
As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with IIH treatment. For medication therapy, some of the common side effects include body weight gain, gastrointestinal issues and increased risk of blood clots. Surgical treatments may carry risks such as infection, bleeding and neurological complications. However, these risks can often be minimized with careful patient selection and a skilled medical team.