Idiopathic intracranial hypertension

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) happens when high pressure around the brain causes symptoms like vision changes and headaches. “Idiopathic” means the cause isn’t known, “intracranial” means in the skull, and “hypertension” means high pressure. IIH happens when too much

cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)

 builds up in your skull. This puts extra pressure on your brain and on the nerve in the back of your eye, called the optic nerve.
If you notice changes in your vision, talk to your

Ophthalmologist

. The doctor can determine if your symptoms are related to IIH or another condition.
Symptoms

Headache

  • Behind the eyes

  • Throbbing

  • Tight band-like pain around the head and neck

  • Occurs or worsens with bending down

common

Transient visual loss

common

Ringing in ears

  • Both ears, One ear

common

Feel like vomiting

common

Eye pain

  • Occurs or worsens with eye movement

  • In one eye, Both eyes

  • Behind the eye

common

Eye flashing lights

common

Dizziness

common

Intolerance to light

common

Double vision

Blurred vision

Difficulty moving neck

or Back pain

  • Radiates to the thighs

  • Lower

or Back neck pain

  • Pain radiates to shoulder or arm

Blindness

Throwing up

Risk factors

Overweight or obese

Use of growth hormone

Use of vitamin A

or Use of retinoids

Use of tetracyclines

Treatment
Treatment includes a healthy diet, salt restriction, and exercise. The medication acetazolamide may also be used. A small percentage of people may require surgery to relieve the pressure.
Recommended specialist

If you have Idiopathic intracranial hypertension, then a visit to a neurologist is highly recommended.

Contact a

Neurologist

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