Can people with Intracranial Hypertension work? What kind of work can they perform?

See how people with experience in Intracranial Hypertension give their opinion about whether people with Intracranial Hypertension can work and what kind of jobs are more appropriated for people with Intracranial Hypertension


Can people with Intracranial Hypertension work?


Intracranial Hypertension, also known as pseudotumor cerebri, is a medical condition characterized by increased pressure within the skull. This condition can cause a variety of symptoms including severe headaches, vision problems, nausea, and dizziness. Given the potential impact on daily life, it is natural to wonder if individuals with Intracranial Hypertension can continue to work.


While the ability to work may vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual circumstances, many people with Intracranial Hypertension are able to maintain employment. However, it is important to note that some individuals may require workplace accommodations or adjustments to their job responsibilities.


What kind of work can they perform?


The type of work that individuals with Intracranial Hypertension can perform largely depends on the severity of their symptoms and the impact on their daily functioning. Here are some considerations:



  1. Flexible work arrangements: Individuals with Intracranial Hypertension may benefit from flexible work arrangements such as part-time work, telecommuting, or flexible hours. This allows them to manage their symptoms and attend medical appointments as needed.

  2. Sedentary or desk-based jobs: Jobs that involve minimal physical exertion and allow individuals to sit for extended periods may be more suitable for those with Intracranial Hypertension. Examples include administrative roles, customer service, writing, data entry, or computer programming.

  3. Remote work: With the increasing availability of remote work opportunities, individuals with Intracranial Hypertension can explore jobs that can be performed from home. This can help reduce the stress of commuting and provide a more comfortable environment.

  4. Jobs with reduced sensory stimuli: Some individuals with Intracranial Hypertension may be sensitive to bright lights, loud noises, or other sensory stimuli. Jobs that offer a controlled environment with minimal sensory triggers, such as working in a library, laboratory, or research setting, may be more suitable.

  5. Supportive work environments: A supportive work environment can greatly benefit individuals with Intracranial Hypertension. This includes understanding colleagues, accommodating supervisors, and access to necessary accommodations such as adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, or specialized lighting.

  6. Self-employment or freelancing: For individuals with more severe symptoms or unpredictable flare-ups, self-employment or freelancing can provide greater flexibility and control over their work schedule. This allows them to prioritize their health needs while still pursuing their professional goals.


It is important for individuals with Intracranial Hypertension to consult with their healthcare provider and discuss their specific symptoms and limitations. They can work together to determine the most suitable work options and any necessary accommodations.


In conclusion, while Intracranial Hypertension can present challenges, many individuals with this condition are able to continue working. The key is to find a balance between managing symptoms and finding a suitable work environment. With the right support, accommodations, and understanding, individuals with Intracranial Hypertension can pursue fulfilling employment and maintain their professional aspirations.


by Diseasemaps

Rarely. Its hard to hold a job through the numerous doc appointments plus the bad days

2/21/17 by Kate 1052

I unfortunately do not work due to iih however the uk government to not see me fit to get payment and iih is bad enough to the point someone else is typing all this.

2/21/17 by Reagan 300

Yes. Office bound

2/21/17 by Colleen 1000

Yes, for me though memory loss is a big problem, as well as fatigue so I can't hold a normal 8 hour position. I do well with small cleaning jobs.

2/21/17 by Bloomingbeauti 1102

Sure. It's all about the disease effects you. IH can effects anyone at anytime for any reason. In my case unfortunately no I can no longer work. But I know of lawyers and doctors. Nurses and students. Paramedics. Triathletes.

2/21/17 by Deirdra 1000

Yes, intracranial hypertension sufferers can work depending on the severity of their symptoms. Work which raises CSF pressure may not be desirable or that which worsens visual disturbances or high pressure headaches.

2/21/17 by Amy 1495

I was able to work at first but at the moment i am unemployed. My symptoms got too agressive and i ended up needing time off for surgeries. I was never able to return to work after the surgery.

2/21/17 by Heather 351

It all depends on the severity of their symptoms. For me I worked undiagnosed for years before the headaches got unbearable. I work in a call center environment so it wouldn't be a good idea with the headaches.

2/22/17 by Kathleen 450

Yes. Depending on the severity of their symptoms. Should a person be experiencing vision loss, it will obviously limit tasks/work that can be performed. I think 90% of people work in any field.

2/22/17 by Alet 1002

Yes. It all depends on the severity of their symptoms. Some people find they are ready to go after their Neuro surgery or finding their magical medication dosage. Others can only do part time and some can't work at all. But I've seen nurses, lawyers, office type jobs, daycare and teachers all work. It depends on the person.

2/22/17 by leighrach 750

Some people try and work until they are unable. People with IIH hold any and all types of jobs. I am on permeant disability. More and more people that I know in the IIH group I am I are trying to get disability as they are no longer able to work.

2/23/17 by Diane 1053

Some people can work and others cannot. Because it's an invisible illness as well as a chronic pain condition employers in general don't tend to understand so having info for them to read from credible sources will give them a better idea as to why some days are worse than others or why you need time off after a lumbar puncture

2/23/17 by Rhiannon 450

Some can, some can't. It depends on how bad your condition is affecting you.

2/24/17 by Maryssa 2100

I was a student when I was diagnosed (medical student) and now I am doctor, for me I had lot of pressure both educational and work. But nothing affected me much.. but yes definitely because of medication I use to feel sleepy and lethargic all day... which at time potassium also didn't help.!

5/18/17 by Dr.M 701

Yes with limitations

5/29/17 by Talitha 400

Yes, a person with Intracranial Hypertension can still work but their work load may be limited. Living with Intracranial Hypertension comes with lots of specialist appointments, surgical procedures etc. Some people with Intracranial Hypertension can work just as anyone else can but for some people, their symptoms can be worse than other people therefore making work a lot more difficult.

8/11/17 by hannah.l18 1100

It depends a lot in the severity of the illness and how well it's controlled. Many people can live normal lives.

8/12/17 by Brianna 300

Some people can work, if they have their idiopathic intracranial hypertension under control. But, they may have to take more time off , or breaks due to Doctors visits, or sick days. They probably won't be able to scuba dive, fly planes, or do anything dangerous unless they are cleared by their Neurologist.

8/12/17 by Christy 850

Yes! As long as it's being treated or you're not symptomatic. People with Intercranial hypertension can do anything their physical health allows them to. If you're extremely symptomatic, then maybe work from home.

8/13/17 by LaurynPatterson 1750

Some can. Depends widely on their symptoms. Vision loss is the main concern. It is based solely on the individual and how they are affected and what type of job they are trying to perform.

8/15/17 by Mommy2Five 1500

A lot can carry on as normal it depends on the severity on how it affects you. I had to give up work eventually. Because I had my second shunt and it failed and it left me with nerve damage and Co stand back pain. And the I H gives me vision problems memory loss. Balance problems. And sickness. So was unfit to work

8/15/17 by Lynne 1600

Because of damage to ny body fron so many surgeries and the memory loss from all the medications I can not work but people with Intracranial Hypertension work everyday. If you have a shunt I wouldnt suggest hard physical labor for work because of the chances of it breaking but anything else is fine

8/18/17 by Unique cheatom 2120

I so admire anyone who can! I am 57 years old so I really can't. I raised 4 children when I was younger (my youngest is a senior this year) and was fortunate my husband didn't need me to work. My IH is severe and I have an LV and VP shunt and also take Diamox, Trokendi and several other meds to help control the IH. I am in bed lots during the day due to extreme fatigue. I really wish I was able to do more but it just isn't realistic for me

9/9/17 by Linda 200

Working from home or self employed which means your able to work at your own pace

10/16/17 by Melanie 600

I would say jobs are limited because the illness is so unpredictable in my experience a headache or vomiting even vision loss can accure at any time any day

10/18/17 by Sara 2000

Yes they can work, any work depending on ability

10/19/17 by Julie 2000

Yes, I work in an office normally as I did before diagnosis.

10/20/17 by Sarah 500

40 percent work in any given field. 60 % are on disability.

10/28/17 by lisa 3365

It depends on the person and severity of the condition.

10/29/17 by So 2000

I work part time, study part time and am involved in many volunteer activities so effectively work a 10-12 hour day usually. Some people are not able to leave their house. So it really depends on you & your particular set of symptoms, medication side effects, and tolerance. Everyone is unique. Never see this condition as a limitation until you have tried your best!!

10/29/17 by Annie 200

Depending on the person, how they are affected and the job.

10/29/17 by Dotty 450

Many people with intracranial hypertension can continue to work in a variety of fields, however some find it difficult depending on their symptoms and side effects of medications. Fatigue and cognitive/short term memory issues are the major concerns, particularly driving. Many individuals find part time work more appropriate to their needs.

2/18/18 by Kelly 2560

Depends on symptom, some people who have daily headaches find it hard to leave home so going to work isn't always something you can do.

2/18/18 by Tiffany-Diane 400

Yes depending on what they feel necessary

2/18/18 by Sarahhxoxx 700

Yes some can depending on the level of pain they have.

7/12/18 by Michelle 2050
Translated from spanish Improve translation

Any work that does not require force or drive

6/7/17 by Lo. Translated
Translated from portuguese Improve translation

The type of work depends on the after-effects... Remembering that not all people are left with sequelae if the treatment is fast.

10/30/17 by Valquiria. Translated

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