Signs of Increased Intracranial Pressure: What They Mean

What Exactly Is Intracranial Pressure?

The brain is securely enclosed within the skull and cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which also maintains constant internal pressure. When this balance is disturbed—due to bleeding, swelling, or fluid accumulation—pressure rises, threatening brain function. If left untreated, increased intracranial pressure (ICP) can cause lasting damage or even be fatal.

Early Symptoms to Watch For

Signs of raised ICP vary based on the cause and progression. Look out for:

• Morning or positional headaches
• Nausea or unexplained vomiting
• Blurred or partial vision loss
• Confusion, drowsiness, or difficulty concentrating
• Sudden seizures
• Uneven pupils or poor reaction to light
• Weakness on one side of the body
• In babies, bulging fontanelle (soft spot) or extreme fussiness

Prompt recognition of these signs allows for quicker diagnosis and intervention.

Possible Causes of Raised ICP

Several medical emergencies can cause intracranial pressure to rise:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Brain tumors or cysts
• Hydrocephalus (CSF buildup)
• Bleeds inside the brain (hemorrhage)
• Meningitis or encephalitis
• Stroke or vascular blockage
• Severe metabolic or organ dysfunction

Each requires different management based on precise diagnosis.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Doctors may recommend:

• Neurological exam and symptom analysis
• CT or MRI scans to check for swelling, bleeding, or abnormal fluid
• Insertion of a pressure-monitoring device (in critical cases)

These methods help assess the severity and plan the best treatment.

Treatment Approaches for ICP

Depending on the cause and urgency, management may involve:

• Drugs that reduce swelling or fluid in the brain
• Drainage of excess CSF using a catheter
• Surgery to remove masses or relieve pressure (e.g. craniectomy)
• Infection or tumor-specific treatments
• Supportive measures: elevating head, oxygen, ventilation

Acting early dramatically improves patient prognosis and reduces complications.

Recovery and Follow-Up

Recovery timelines range from a few weeks to months, depending on the nature and severity of the cause. Patients may undergo:

• Regular assessments with a neurologist
• Physical and cognitive therapy sessions
• Lifestyle adjustments for long-term brain health

In Mumbai, patients can access advanced care through Dr. Jayesh Sardhara, a neurosurgical expert trusted for ICP-related interventions.

FAQs

What are the common symptoms of increased intracranial pressure? Headaches, vomiting, visual issues, seizures, confusion, sluggish pupils, and weakness on one side of the body are major signs. How is increased intracranial pressure diagnosed and treated? Doctors use neuro exams, imaging (CT/MRI), and monitoring devices for diagnosis. Treatment may include medication, drainage of excess CSF, and in some cases, surgery to relieve pressure.