Prevention of hydrocephalus is a more complex matter, as there are more possible causes. They include congenital disorder, post-infections, and cerebral hemorrhages or tumors.

However improving maternal and child health care and improving immunization coverage is believed to prevent some of the post –infectious cases.

Adequate and timely referral for treatment of hydrocephalus prevents secondary disabilities such as blindness and brain damage. Also remember that in our earlier news reports about hydrocephalus we told you that hydrocephalus, also called Water on the Brain, is a condition in which there is an abnormal build up of fluids in the cavities of the brain. The buildup is often caused by an obstruction which prevents proper fluid drainage.

The fluid buildup raises pressure inside the skull which compresses surrounding brain tissue, causing progressive enlargement and softening of the head, convulsions, and brain damage. Hydrocephalus can be fatal if left untreated. Spina bifida and hydrocephalus are very expensive conditions to manage as they require much labour and money.

Ends