These symptoms could signal a treatable brain condition

Symptoms often mistaken for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or aging could signal a treatable brain disorder called normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).

In fact, an estimated 800,000 adults in the U.S., most over the age of 65, have NPH. The condition occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain’s ventricles, creating pressure that can damage brain tissue even when fluid pressure readings appear normal.

“NPH often goes undiagnosed for years because its symptoms mimic more common conditions,” says Dr. Demetrius Lopes, a neurosurgeon and director of cerebrovascular neurosurgery at Advocate Health Care. “Recognizing changes in walking, thinking or bladder control can help people advocate for themselves or a loved one and make all the difference in getting the right diagnosis.”

Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty walking, such as shuffling steps, imbalance, hesitation before stepping forward or feeling like their feet are ‘stuck’
• Memory loss, slower thinking, trouble concentrating or confusion
• Urinary urgency or incontinence

Patients or caregivers who notice these symptoms should discuss the possibility of NPH with their health care provider and ask which tests can confirm or rule out the condition. Consulting with a neurologist or neurosurgeon who specializes in NPH can help ensure accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

It’s important to receive care for NPH through a specialized hydrocephalus clinic, which screens patients for the condition and guides them toward appropriate treatment.

One minimally invasive treatment alternative is the eShunt™ procedure. Unlike conventional surgery, which requires opening the skull, the eShunt™ is inserted through a vein in the leg and diverts excess fluid into a vein in the neck. The approach is designed to simplify implantation, reduce the risk of complications and allow for faster recovery.

For many, the right diagnosis and treatment of NPH can significantly improve overall quality of life.

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