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What are the best treatments for Intracranial Hypertension?

See the best treatments for Intracranial Hypertension here

Intracranial Hypertension treatments

Treatments for 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 in some cases, even permanent vision loss. It is crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect you have intracranial hypertension, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.



1. Medications


Medication is often the first line of treatment for intracranial hypertension. The primary goal of medication is to reduce the production of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or increase its absorption, thereby decreasing intracranial pressure. The most commonly prescribed medications include:



  • Diuretics: These medications help reduce fluid retention in the body, including the brain, by increasing urine production. Diuretics commonly used for intracranial hypertension include acetazolamide and furosemide.

  • Topiramate: Originally an antiepileptic drug, topiramate has shown effectiveness in reducing intracranial pressure and is often prescribed for this condition.

  • Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling in the brain, thereby alleviating symptoms.



2. Optic Nerve Sheath Fenestration


Optic nerve sheath fenestration is a surgical procedure that involves creating small openings in the protective covering of the optic nerve. This procedure helps relieve pressure on the optic nerve and can prevent further vision loss. It is typically recommended for individuals with severe vision problems or those who do not respond well to medication.



3. Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt


A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a surgical procedure that involves placing a thin tube, called a shunt, into the brain's ventricles to divert excess cerebrospinal fluid to the abdominal cavity. This helps regulate the fluid buildup and reduces intracranial pressure. VP shunts are often recommended for individuals with severe intracranial hypertension or those who do not respond to other treatments.



4. Weight Loss and Lifestyle Modifications


For individuals who are overweight or obese, losing weight can significantly help reduce intracranial pressure. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can contribute to weight loss and overall well-being. Additionally, avoiding activities that increase intracranial pressure, such as straining during bowel movements or intense physical exertion, can be beneficial.



5. Regular Eye Exams


Regular eye exams are crucial for individuals with intracranial hypertension, as they can help monitor any changes in vision and detect potential complications. Ophthalmologists can assess the optic nerve and recommend appropriate interventions if necessary.



6. Management of Underlying Conditions


In some cases, intracranial hypertension may be secondary to an underlying condition, such as hormonal imbalances or medication side effects. Treating the underlying cause can help alleviate intracranial hypertension symptoms. It is essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to identify and manage any contributing factors.



It is important to note that the treatment plan for intracranial hypertension may vary depending on the individual's specific condition and response to different interventions. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized recommendations and monitor the effectiveness of the chosen treatment approach.


Diseasemaps
40 answers
I was taken off all meds waiting for surgery after 90+ lps.

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Kate 1052
I personally use CBD to treat it and the symptoms seem to go completely

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Reagan 300
Diamox, Azomid, shunt

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Colleen 1000
For me Vp Shunt and Lasix

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Bloomingbeauti 1102
Treatments? They're more like bandaids. There's drugs like diamox and lasix that are water pills and help you drain the excess fluids but have awful side effects. There's pain medications. Botox injections. And than of course there's shunts and stents. Both very different. And there's spinal taps too. It's all very personal and the disease is very personal. What treatments work to help me may not help you.

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Deirdra 1000
VP Shunt, LP Shunt, VA Shunt

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Rangi 250
Treatments and their effectiveness vary from person to person. Weight loss works for some but not others. Medications such as acetazolamide and topiramate can provide relief for some. Therapeutic lumbar punctures help most sufferers. Occasionally surgery is an option for those who have exhausted other treatment options.

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Amy 1495
Diamox is my only treatment, loosing weight can be helpful. I went into a short remission when i lost 20lbs and entered the healthy bmi, but that only lasted a few months and it came back with a vengeance.

Posted Feb 21, 2017 by Heather 351
Well the most common is the medication Diamox possibly along with Topamax. There's also surgery options of shunts (which is the tried and true method) and stents (which is newer and has very specific requirements for it). Some DR will say that weight loss will put people on remission but from most people I speak with said this makes their symptoms worse.

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by Kathleen 450
Medication - Diamox
VP or LP shunts
Spinal taps
Lumbar punctures

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by Alet 1002
Everyone is different -- shunts or stents are popular. Medicine was Diamox and Topomax are very popular. Medical marijuana is becoming popular along with Botox.

Posted Feb 22, 2017 by leighrach 750
Doctors try diamox or tompax first (both of which I am allergic to)

VP and LP shunts are usually the next treatments doctors do. (I have already had one brain surgery and do not want another. Some people say they shunt was the best thing that has happened for them. Other people have horror stories and say it is the worst decision they have ever made. You have to decide what's best for you)

Posted Feb 23, 2017 by Diane 1053
Diamox and Vp or LP shunt surgery for long term

Lumbar punctures for short term

Posted Feb 23, 2017 by Rhiannon 450
Shunt, lasix, normal spinal taps, topomax

Posted Feb 24, 2017 by Maryssa 2100
Lasix & acetazolamide (diamox)
With potassium tablets.( you need them because be loose potassium via urine through lasix, and it might also help in lethargy)

Posted May 18, 2017 by Dr.M 701
Diamox, topamac, lp shunt and vp shunt

Posted May 29, 2017 by Pooja A 600
Spinal taps , Diamox

Posted May 29, 2017 by Talitha 400
Lumbar punctures drain the fluid from the spine and that can give temporary relief but is not a long term treatment as it can damage the spine.
A Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt can be placed in the brain to drain the excess CSF fluid into the lower abdomen where is absorbs, i believe this is the most effective treatment.

Posted Aug 11, 2017 by hannah.l18 1100
Acetazolamide, furosemide, possible vp shunt if medication doesn't work

Posted Aug 12, 2017 by Brianna 300
Medications, like Diamox, Topamax and even Lasix can be used. When medications don't work, shunts are used, but new research has suggested that stenting for venous stenosis is the best approach. Optic Nerve sheath fenastration is also used.

Posted Aug 12, 2017 by Christy 850
Medication, and/or shunt placement

Posted Aug 13, 2017 by LaurynPatterson 1750
Lumbar punctures and shunts

Posted Aug 15, 2017 by Mommy2Five 1500
Some people find shunts the best treatment some weight loss some tablets and lumbar punctures which I am having to relieve the pressure. As two shunts have failed on me

Posted Aug 15, 2017 by Lynne 1600
I believe ing a shunt is the best treatment. I know they can easily break and surgery is risky but the medicines cause so many more issues that I'd rather have the shunt than put those medications in my body

Posted Aug 18, 2017 by Unique cheatom 2120
Therapeutic lumbar punctures

Posted Oct 16, 2017 by Melanie 600
My vp shunt saved my eyes but not stopped the pain

Posted Oct 17, 2017 by Lucinda Sara (VDubsTDi) 511
I haven't found the best treatment but I always feel better after an l.p.

Posted Oct 18, 2017 by Sara 2000
Therapeutic lumber punctures and shunts

Posted Oct 19, 2017 by Julie 2000
Lumbar puncture
Intracranial venous stent
Medication - acetazolamide, topiramate, furosomide

Posted Oct 20, 2017 by Sarah 500
Depends on the person. meds are started first then surgery if vision is lost rapidly.

Posted Oct 28, 2017 by lisa 3365
Lumbar puncture or a shunt

Posted Oct 29, 2017 by So 2000
I've only just started, first was a lumbar puncture to diagnose but it also helped because they drained fluid off, and now I'm on day two of diamox.

Posted Oct 29, 2017 by Dotty 450
Pharmaceutical treatments such as Acetazolamide or Topiramate
Weight-loss
Surgical intervention such as optic nerve sheath fenistration, shunts and stents

Posted Feb 18, 2018 by Kelly 2560
Water tablets are normally used first Diamox or Topamax or both at ths same time. Lasix can also be used, if meds dont work surgery might be needed. A VP shunt in the brain or L.p. shunt in the spine.

Posted Feb 18, 2018 by Tiffany-Diane 400
Topirimate
Lumbar puncture

Posted Feb 18, 2018 by Sarahhxoxx 700
Usually Diamox or topiramate to start. Then every individual is different.

Posted Jul 12, 2018 by Michelle 2050
Medications: diamox, topiramate, methazolamide, off label use of ozempic or other GLP-1 antagonists for their intracranial pressure reducing side effect.
surgical: shunts (LP,VP,& VA most common), Optic nerve sheath fenestration, bariatric surgery to assist weight loss
Other: weight loss,

Posted Aug 12, 2023 by K 300
Translated from spanish Improve translation
Bypass peritoneal

Posted Jun 7, 2017 by Lo 2000
Translated from portuguese Improve translation
Shunt ventriculoperitoneal or lomboperitoneal

Posted Oct 30, 2017 by Valquiria 500

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INTRACRANIAL HYPERTENSION STORIES
Intracranial Hypertension stories
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...
Intracranial Hypertension stories
_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...
Intracranial Hypertension stories
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...
Intracranial Hypertension stories
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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Intracranial Hypertension forum

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

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