Seizures

What it is

Seizures are episodes of abnormal, excessive electrical activity in the brain, which can cause a range of symptoms from staring spells to convulsions. They can occur in some people with hydrocephalus, though they are not a defining feature of the condition.

Understanding Seizures

Seizures in the setting of hydrocephalus may relate to associated brain abnormalities, the underlying cause of the hydrocephalus, prior surgery, or other factors, rather than being caused by the hydrocephalus itself in every case. Not everyone with hydrocephalus has seizures, and seizures have many possible causes. When seizures occur, they are evaluated to determine the cause and whether treatment (such as anti-seizure medication) is needed; new or changing seizures may also prompt evaluation for a shunt problem or other issue. Seizure management, when needed, is handled alongside the overall care of the hydrocephalus, often with a neurologist's involvement.

Why it matters

Understanding seizures in the context of hydrocephalus helps families see that while seizures can occur in some people, they are not universal, and new seizures warrant evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.