The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

A condition causing gait, memory and bladder problems due to accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid while intracranial pressure remains normal.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a condition that develops with excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in brain ventricles while intracranial pressure remains at normal levels. It is especially seen in individuals over 60 years.

The clinical picture is generally characterized by what is known as the 'Hakim triad': gait disturbance (magnetic or shuffling gait), cognitive slowing and urinary incontinence. NPH should be considered when these three findings are seen together.

NPH is one of the treatable causes of dementia. Symptoms can significantly improve when CSF drainage is achieved with ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement.

Symptoms

Short-stepped, foot barely lifted off ground walking (magnetic gait)
Memory and concentration difficulty
Urinary incontinence or frequent need to use the toilet
Balance disturbance and tendency to fall
Slowed thinking and reaction speed
Decreased independence in daily activities

Risk Factors

Being over 60 years
History of meningitis or head trauma
History of subarachnoid hemorrhage
Hypertension and cerebral small vessel disease
Family history of hydrocephalus

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If new-onset gait disturbance and memory problems are seen together in an elderly individual
  • If urinary incontinence emerges with suspected dementia
  • If a treatable cause of dementia is being investigated
  • In case of recurrence of symptoms after shunt surgery

Treatment Methods

01
CSF drainage with ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt
02
Lumbar puncture test (transient improvement predicts shunt response)
03
Post-shunt physiotherapy and rehabilitation
04
Regular monitoring of shunt complications (obstruction, infection)
05
Control of accompanying cardiovascular risk factors

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Nöroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Nöroloji

Normal pressure hydrocephalus presents with the classic triad of gait apraxia, urinary incontinence and cognitive impairment, and may improve dramatically after ventriculoperitoneal shunting.

Neurology — NPH Shunt Surgery

Nöroloji

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery in normal pressure hydrocephalus reverses gait disturbance, cognitive decline, and incontinence in well-selected patients with positive lumbar tap or external lumbar drainage testing.

Headache and Migraine

Nöroloji

What you need to know about headache types, migraine attacks, and triggering factors.

Low Back Pain

Nöroloji

Learn about the most common causes of low back pain, risk factors, and appropriate treatment approaches.

Neck Pain and Cervical Disc Herniation

Nöroloji

Learn about the symptoms and treatment options for cervical disc herniation and problems in the neck region.

Epilepsy

Nöroloji

Accurate information about epilepsy, types of seizures, and recommendations for patients and families.

Parkinson Disease

Nöroloji

Parkinson disease is caused by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and alpha-synuclein accumulation; well-timed therapy substantially improves function and quality of life.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Nöroloji

Information about early signs, diagnosis, and the care process for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.