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Living with Intracranial Hypertension. How to live with Intracranial Hypertension?

Can you be happy living with Intracranial Hypertension? What do you have to do to be happy with Intracranial Hypertension? Living with Intracranial Hypertension can be difficult, but you have to fight to try to be happy. Have a look at things that other people have done to be happy with Intracranial Hypertension

Living with Intracranial Hypertension

Living with Intracranial Hypertension


Intracranial Hypertension, also known as pseudotumor cerebri, is a condition characterized by increased pressure within the skull. This can lead to various symptoms such as severe headaches, vision problems, and ringing in the ears. While living with Intracranial Hypertension can be challenging, there are several strategies and lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition and improve your quality of life.



1. Seek Medical Guidance


It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in neurology or neurosurgery to properly diagnose and manage Intracranial Hypertension. They can provide you with a personalized treatment plan and monitor your progress over time. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare team are essential.



2. Medication Management


Medications are often prescribed to help manage the symptoms and reduce intracranial pressure. These may include diuretics to decrease fluid retention, pain relievers for headaches, and medications to lower cerebrospinal fluid production. It is important to take your medications as prescribed and inform your doctor of any side effects or concerns.



3. Lifestyle Modifications


Adopting certain lifestyle changes can significantly improve your overall well-being and help manage Intracranial Hypertension:



  • Diet: Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of sodium, caffeine, and processed foods, as they can contribute to fluid retention and increased intracranial pressure.

  • Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, as it can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote overall health. However, consult with your healthcare provider before starting any exercise regimen.

  • Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight or work towards achieving it, as obesity can exacerbate Intracranial Hypertension symptoms.

  • Stress Reduction: Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies that help you relax.

  • Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a comfortable sleep environment.



4. Vision Care


Regular eye exams are crucial for individuals with Intracranial Hypertension, as the condition can affect vision. Your ophthalmologist can monitor any changes and prescribe corrective lenses or other treatments as needed. Additionally, wearing sunglasses outdoors can help protect your eyes from bright sunlight.



5. Support Network


Living with a chronic condition can be emotionally challenging. Building a strong support network can provide you with the necessary emotional and practical support. Reach out to family, friends, or support groups to share experiences, seek advice, and find encouragement.



6. Monitor Symptoms


Keep track of your symptoms, their frequency, and severity. This information can help your healthcare provider assess your progress and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, inform your doctor promptly.



7. Educate Yourself


Take the time to educate yourself about Intracranial Hypertension. Understanding the condition, its causes, and treatment options can empower you to make informed decisions about your health. However, always rely on reputable sources and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.



Living with Intracranial Hypertension requires a proactive approach to manage symptoms and maintain overall well-being. By working closely with your healthcare team, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking support, you can lead a fulfilling life while effectively managing this condition.


Diseasemaps
22 answers
You have to take it day by day and pay attention to the spoon theory. It will help alot

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Kate 1052
You can be happy with the support of family and friends who understand. Try and live past the disease

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Colleen 1000
Of course you can. IH is apart of you. Not who you are. It's all about how you choose to be. You can choose to be depressed and sullen and sulk into a back corner. Or you can choose to accept that you can't change it and figure out what is best for you to make your life livable. Always fight for the light.

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Deirdra 1000
I have to try to focus on my family and not just the disease. It can be difficult Especially with a shunt in your head, a horrible memory and pain . I just have to push through and focus on my sweet husband and beautiful kids

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Bloomingbeauti 1102
Yes, you can be happy with intracranial hypertension. Upon diagnosis it might feel like your world has come crashing down but I promise you it won't. Once you find a balance of CSF pressure reducing medications/doses and/or painkillers etc life becomes much more bearable. Regular neurology and ophthalmology appointments will help reassure you and keep your mind at rest. Your neurologists and other sufferers will be valuable resources to you. Please do not feel like you can't reach out to them. The hopeless feelings pass. Please do not suffer in silence

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Amy 1495
You need a good, uplifting set of loved ones with tough skin who can take your outbursts.

The only way I make it day in and day out is my family, boyfriend and my faith in God. IIH has a high sucidie rate. This disease is no joke. Being in pain at level red 24/7 takes a toll on you mentally.

Family and friends who are not supportive and encouraging will make you worse. It is possible to be happy. I have days when I cry from being sad, but for the most part I stay positive and happy. I am on permeant disability because of health but I tons of hobbies, I started a business and do tons of puzzles to exercise my brain.

You need to find what make you happy, do itb with people you love and will allow you to sit and cry when all you can do it hold your head and pray for a bad pain episode to pass.

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by Diane 1053
You can live a normal life with the diagnosis of Intracranial Hypertension. You can also be a happy person. In order to ensure that this condition does not get the better of you, it is essential that you educate yourself about the condition. Read as much as you can. Join support groups for people with Intracranial Hypertension. If you become depressed seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist. Medication or psychotherapy are very beneficial. Get your support network (friends, family, colleagues).

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by Alet 1002
Personally, I think to be happy with IIH is a thing you choose to do daily. Some days are easier than others so that impacts your ability to be happy. Obviously you can look at anti depressants as an option. As well as acceptance. That's key. Accepting you might not be able to do what you used to do especially if you've lost your vision due to IIH. It's a hard road to acceptance but doable.

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by leighrach 750
Definitely. Don't let this disease rule your happiness. It changes your life, but you can still be happy. Get lots of rest if needed

Posted Feb 24, 2017 by Maryssa 2100
Take it one day at a time. You will have good and bad days. Try to focus on the good days.

Posted Aug 12, 2017 by Christy 850
You need to have a good team of doctors who keep up with your symptoms and make sure to keep you comfortable. Whether that be my medication or by surgery.

Posted Aug 13, 2017 by LaurynPatterson 1750
You have to come to terms with your disease. Do not let your disease be all that you are and remember you are still the same person as you were before the diagnosis. Don't let it define you. It will come with certain challenges and changes to your life. Depression is a very real side affect of this disease and if you need to seek help.

Posted Aug 15, 2017 by Mommy2Five 1500
I take lots of tablets to manage mine. I have to avoid lots of noise. So can't be in noisy places for too long. I like the fresh air. I don't like to watch anything too fast on the TV like action films as it affects my eyes. Just try to live a quiet life.

Posted Aug 15, 2017 by Lynne 1600
I choose to believe that being happy is a choice no matter what is happening in your life. It is bad and hard when you have this condition but you didnt cause it, you cant change it and life has to move on so why go through it miserable. Choose to look at the positive things and enjoy the little things

Posted Aug 18, 2017 by Unique cheatom 2120
Yes you can be happy I'm not gona lie it's hard to get to that point when you feel so ill but with the rite help and surport you can live a life and be happy

Posted Oct 18, 2017 by Sara 2000
yes you can be happy with living with IIH if you dont let the condition beat you, you control it not let it control you

Posted Oct 19, 2017 by Julie 2000
learn to adapt to the new you an know your limits. don't give up on finding treatments.

Posted Oct 28, 2017 by lisa 3365
Get plenty of rest and drink lots of water

Posted Oct 29, 2017 by So 2000
Live life positively. Intracranial hypertension does not rule your life. Control and manage the symptoms as much as possible and find your new normal. Find an online support group for intracranial hypertension or chronic illness. Communicate your needs with your loved ones. When you can, do. When you can't, rest!

Posted Feb 18, 2018 by Kelly 2560
Taking the correct medicine and keeping up to date with it all

Posted Feb 18, 2018 by Sarahhxoxx 700
Translated from spanish Improve translation
You have a happy life. Just get a valve if you're a woman you can have children. While the valve this well all the rest of it

Posted Jun 7, 2017 by Lo 2000

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In July of 2005, I had what I thought was the mother of all Migraines, which I have suffered from since I was 4 years old. I actaully lost my visoin for 2 days! That triggered an Emergency Room visit, where they directed me to a Neurologist for furth...
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_I start having haedache since I was 15 years old but I never pay any attention to it untill I was 25 I was living un kentucky And I when to México for vacations I gain 25 pounds so when I come back to kentucky my headache were worse And I start los...
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Hi, I'm Shellie! I am a former RN, Director of Nursing and Legal Nurse Consultant. In all my 25+ years of nursing, I have never heard of Intracranial hypertension until I was dignosed. Like you, I have to research this little known condition. I am f...
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Hi I am Pam, I am from Wales in the UK.  Back in 1984 I gave birth to my first child, a 9lb6oz son called James.  After about 3 months I started to get headaches, I originally thought they were just due to tiredness and being a new mother, but i wa...
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Diagnosed at 12 at an AVERAGE weight, was not overweight. Allergic to diamox, topamax. Also diagnosed with migraines Now doctors arent even sure I have IIH It was due to an injury (we're assuming from trauma at young age) 3 spinal taps, none of ...

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hi everyone. Is anyone here from Wales suffering with intercranial hypertension? 
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Just wanting to know others with IIH.  I had stent surgery in July 2016 to prevent blindness.  
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Has anyone else with this condition lost the ability to smell?  I can only smell really really strong smells.   

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