Elevated Intracranial Pressure - Increased Intracranial Pressure

What are the treatments for the condition?

There are many different treatments, depending on the cause and degree of increased pressure present. Treating the underlying cause, if possible, can often return the pressure to normal. Treatment may include putting the person on a ventilator, or artificial breathing machine. Medications, surgery, or repeated spinal taps to remove fluid are other treatment options.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Ventilators may cause infection or lung damage. Medications may have side effects, such as allergic reactions or stomach upset. Surgery and spinal taps carry a risk of bleeding, infection, and even death.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

If the underlying cause is corrected and the person feels better, he or she can generally go home with no further treatment. If extensive brain damage has occurred, the person may need intense rehabilitation before going home.

How is the condition monitored?

Symptoms and physical examination findings are followed. Sometimes, special instruments are placed through the skin and into the skull to measure the intracranial pressure.