Pseudotumor Cerebri Symptoms and Treatment

Write-up by Irvin.Tristen

Pseudotumor Cerebri - An Overview

Pseudotumor cerebri is typically confused with a tumor, but it is not 1. Thus it is given the name "pseudo tumor" meaning fake or false tumor. It is also recognized as idiopathic intracranial hypertension which occurs when there is pressure on the brain. This causes symptoms that are similar to a tumor. The condition generally affects people between the age group 20 - 50 and is far more typical amongst females than men.

Causes -

When there is an boost in the pressure within the skull it leads to pseudotumor cerebri. Even though the precise reason is difficult to discover out, the condition can effortlessly be treated. Apart from this reason there are some medications that if consumed, can enhance the risk of pseudotumor cerebri. For example -

1. Steroids2. Excessive dosage of vitamin A3. Minocycline4. Tetracycline5. Lithium etc.

Wellness conditions such as head injury, kidney disease etc also can result to a pseudotumor cerebri.

Symptoms -

The main symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri are as follows -

1. Headaches2. Blurry or double vision3. Dizziness4. Pulsating impact in the ear5. Nausea

Serious risks with pseudotumor cerebri are temporary or permanent loss of vision along with excruciating headaches. Even though this condition is not life-threatening and is curable, action ought to be taken in time so that there is no permanent loss of vision (which is the greatest side-effect). The headache experienced in this condition frequently ranges from light to severe. Generally the condition can be treated easily, but in some individuals the condition might recur after a period of time. The recurrence can be soon after months or even years. The symptoms get worse with physical activity, especially if the patient is obese.

Diagnosis -

Numerous tests are accomplished, beginning from an eye test. This is carried out to decide how poor the vision is and how it can be corrected. Scans of the head, to check if there are any blood clots or tumors are also carried out. Medications are prescribed in order to ease the condition of the patient, and give relief from the pain.

Treatment -

Pseudotumor cerebri is generally treated with medications to lessen the headaches and decrease in vision. Following a strict diet in order to lose weight is suggested for obese individuals. For those having significant vision difficulties, a surgery is also suggested. Though it is not identified specifically why there appears to be a connection between obesity in girls and pseudotumor cerebri, weight loss is important and will make a huge distinction. The medication given for treatment will be to minimize the intracranial pressure.

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