How can hydrocephalus lead to an intellectual disability?

To flow between the cranium and spine and compensate for changes in the amount of blood within the brain. When there is an imbalance between the amount of CSF produced and the rate at which it is absorbed, the pressure of excessive CSF can damage brain tissues and cause a large spectrum of impairments in the brain.

How can hydrocephalus cause mental retardation?

They have postulated that progressive hydrocephalus with a rising CSF pressure may result in failure of brain growth and mental retardation unless ventricular drainage is instituted prior to the time neural damage is irreversible.

How does hydrocephalus affect development?

Many children with pediatric hydrocephalus have normal intelligence and physical development, but some may be slower to develop skills such as hand-eye coordination or learning to walk. Some may experience learning problems as they progress in school.

What are some possible consequences of hydrocephalus?

In hydrocephalus, the build-up of CSF can raise pressure inside the skull, which squashes surrounding brain tissue. In some cases, this can cause the head to steadily grow in size, convulsions, and brain damage. Hydrocephalus can be fatal if left untreated.

Does hydrocephalus cause learning disabilities?

Learning disabilities (difficulties) are not uncommon in children with hydrocephalus and/or spina bifida. It is essential that parents be aware that their child may be at risk for learning disabilities and be prepared to take early action to assure their child the best social and academic start.

Is hydrocephalus an intellectual disability?

They often have intellectual manifestations but not always. For example, people with cerebral palsy, spinal bifida, and hydrocephalus are all considered to have a developmental disability, but they may or may not have a cognitive disability.

Can hydrocephalus cause learning disabilities?

Does hydrocephalus cause brain damage?

Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain, which can damage it. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can be fatal.

What are the causes of hydrocephalus?

Possible causes of acquired hydrocephalus include:

• bleeding inside the brain – for example, if blood leaks over the surface of the brain (subarachnoid haemorrhage)
• blood clots in the brain (venous thrombosis)
• meningitis – an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• brain tumours.
• head injury.