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


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.


by Diseasemaps

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

2/21/17 by Kate 1052

You can be happy with the support of family and friends who understand. Try and live past the disease

2/21/17 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.

2/21/17 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

2/21/17 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

2/21/17 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.

2/22/17 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).

2/22/17 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.

2/22/17 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

2/24/17 by Maryssa 2100

Take it one day at a time. You will have good and bad days. Try to focus on the good days.

8/12/17 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.

8/13/17 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.

8/15/17 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.

8/15/17 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

8/18/17 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

10/18/17 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

10/19/17 by Julie 2000

learn to adapt to the new you an know your limits. don't give up on finding treatments.

10/28/17 by lisa 3365

Get plenty of rest and drink lots of water

10/29/17 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!

2/18/18 by Kelly 2560

Taking the correct medicine and keeping up to date with it all

2/18/18 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

6/7/17 by Lo. Translated

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