Essay On Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a nervous system disorder in which cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain (Mayo Clinic 2014). The causes of this disorder are still not well understood, but it may result from inherited genetic abnormalities, developmental disorders, tumors, and other injuries to the head that may cause a blockage. This blockage prevents the excess CSF that builds up in the brain from exiting, which adds pressure on the brain tissue that can lead to brain damage (NIH, 2012). Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (NIH, 2012). The reason why the balance between the production and absorption of CSF is important is because it is continuously made, and a blockage will cause an overproduction of …show more content…
About one to two of every 1,000 babies are born with hydrocephalus and about 0.6% of all pediatric hospital admissions are because of hydrocephalus in the United States (NIH, 2012). Moreover, this condition occurs mostly in children, affecting 1 in every 500 children, and adults, and can develop later in life (MedicineNet, 2011). It affects people in all walks of life, from every socioeconomic background. Hydrocephalus is the most common reason for brain surgery in children (MedicineNet, 2011). However, there are ways to reduce the risk of hydrocephalus. During pregnancy one should get regular prenatal care because following the doctor's recommended schedule for checkups during pregnancy can reduce your risk of premature labor, which places the baby at risk of hydrocephalus and other complications (Mayo Clinic 2014). Another way to prevent this disorder is by following the recommended vaccination and screening schedules for your age and sex and preventing the infections and other illnesses associated with hydrocephalus may reduce your risk (Mayo Clinic 2014). Although, it is also important to prevent head injury by using appropriate safety equipment because head damage can cause