Pseudotumor cerebri (Idiopathic Intracranial hypertension)
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), sometimes called by the older names benign intracranial hypertension (BIH) or pseudotumor cerebri (PTC), is a neurological disorder that is characterized by increased intracranial pressure (pressure around the brain) in the absence of a tumor or other diseases. The main symptoms are headache, nausea, and vomiting, as well as pulsatile tinnitus (buzzing in the ears synchronous with the pulse), double vision and other visual symptoms. If untreated, it may lead to swelling of the optic disc in the eye, which can progress to vision loss.
Is there really a tumour inside the head in psuedotumor cerebri ?
The term “pseudo” excludes the possibility of a tumor within the head. since the signs and symptoms mimicked that of a tumour the condition is called pseudotumor cerebri.
How long will i have to continue diamox?
In some cases as long as 1-2 years also till the doctor decides that the pressure inside the head is adequately controlled.
Once the headache is relieved, can i discontinue the tablets?
No. resolution of headache can allow in reduction in the dosage of the drug but not completely withdraw it. only when the optic disc oedema is completely resolved and there is no further damage to the visual function then the doctor will consider withdrawing the tablets.
if there is no tumour, then is there a risk to the life of the patient with ‘pseudotumour cerebri’?
No, there is no risk to the life of the patient, but there is a real threat to the vision of the patient due to the continued pressure around the optic nerve head ( the nerve which connects the eye to the brain) by fluid.
