Hydrocephalus is the medical terminology for excess fluid in the brain. Hydrocephalus can be described as the buildup of fluid in the ventricles or cavities of the brain. As the liquid builds up, the ventricles increase in size and cause pressure on and within the brain. While cerebrospinal fluid is normal in the brain and spinal column, the presence of too much of the tissue causes damage to the brain tissues and, in turn, causes a large range of impairments in cognitive functioning.
The signs and symptoms of the condition vary depending on the age of onset. Typically, hydrocephalus in infants causes symptoms including an unusually large head, a bulging or tense spot on top of the head, vomiting, excessive sleepiness, irritability, poor feeding and seizures. The condition in toddlers and older children presents symptoms including abnormal enlargement of the head, headache, nausea or vomiting, fever, delays in developmental milestones, change in personality, issues with attention and poor appetite. Young to middle-aged adults commonly experience headache, difficulty remaining awake, loss of coordination and balance, loss of bladder control and impaired vision. Likewise, older adults experience loss of bladder control, memory loss, loss of thinking and reasoning skills, difficulty walking and balancing and seizures.
The cause of hydrocephalus is an imbalance in the amount of cerebrospinal fluid produced compared to that which is absorbed into the bloodstream. Typically, the excess fluid is a result of one of three issues. Obstruction from or to the ventricles in the brain is one cause of the imbalance. Additional causes include poor absorption caused by inflammation or overproduction.
While many undergo invasive surgeries to eliminate excess fluid on the brain, natural hydrocephalus treatment options are available that relieve the cause and symptoms of the condition. Initially, removing toxins using supplements such as Echinacea, beet root, dandelion and burdock is important. Additionally, garlic and capsicum can be used to support cardiovascular health and detox while schizandra, rosemary and turmeric can be used to support liver and gallbladder health. Additionally, lily of the valley, anise, parsley and burdock root can be used to eliminate fluid on the brain and establish better overall health. Continue reading below for more detailed posts from Earth Clinic contributors.
