Intracranial hypertension
Outlook forchronic IH
Chronic IH can be life threatening if it remains undiagnosed and the underlying causes are not treated. You should be referred to a specialist as soon as possible if your doctor suspects it.
Idiopathic IH isn't usually life threatening, but can be a lifelong problem. While many people find their symptoms are relieved with treatment, the symptoms can recur and can have a significant impact on your life.
There's also a risk that you could lose your vision, even though treatment can help reduce this risk.
Permanent vision loss is estimated tooccur in between1 in every 5 to 20 people with idiopathic IH.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out what intracranial hypertension (IH) is, what the symptoms are, why it happens, and how it's treated.
Symptoms ofchronic IH
Symptoms of chronic IH can include: a constantthrobbing headache this may beworsein the morning, or when coughing or straining; it mayimprove when standing up blurredor double vision temporary
Causes of chronic IH
Possible causes of chronic IH include: a blood clot on the surface of the brain known as a chronic subdural haematoma a brain tumour a brain infectionsuch as meningitis or encephalitis hydro
Tests forchronic IH
IH may be suspected if you have symptoms of increased pressure on your brain, such as vision problems and headaches. Several tests may be carried out to diagnose it, such as: an examination to chec
Treatments forchronic IH
Treatment for IH depends on the underlying cause, if this is known. The main treatments for idiopathic IH are: losing weight if you're overweight this can often help reduce symptoms andmay sometim
Outlook forchronic IH
Chronic IH can be life threatening if it remains undiagnosed and the underlying causes are not treated. You should be referred to a specialist as soon as possible if your doctor suspects it. Idiopath
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