What is Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension (SIH) is a condition characterized by low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure in the brain. It occurs without any apparent cause or trauma, hence the term "spontaneous." CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord, maintaining their proper function. When the CSF pressure drops, it can lead to various symptoms and complications.

Common symptoms of SIH include severe headaches, typically worsened by standing or sitting upright, neck pain, nausea, and dizziness. These symptoms may be accompanied by changes in hearing, vision, and cognitive function.

Diagnosis of SIH involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and imaging tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans. A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may also be performed to measure CSF pressure.

Treatment for SIH often involves conservative measures such as bed rest, increased fluid intake, and caffeine consumption to help raise CSF pressure. However, in severe cases, more invasive interventions like epidural blood patches or surgical repair may be necessary to seal the leak causing the low CSF pressure.

If you suspect you may have SIH, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.