Hydrocephalus is a medical condition in which there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain. This accumulation of fluid can lead to an increase in pressure inside the skull, which can cause damage to the brain tissue if left untreated. In infants, it is often present at birth or develops shortly after. The exact prevalence of hydrocephalus is not well documented, but it is estimated to affect around 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 births in the United States.
The most common causes of hydrocephalus include obstruction, impaired absorption, overproduction of CSF congenital abnormalities or head trauma.
The condition can present with various symptoms and severity depending on the cause and how quickly it develops. The severity of hydrocephalus can also vary, ranging from mild to severe cases. Severe cases may lead to more significant symptoms and complications, while milder cases may have subtle or intermittent symptoms.
It’s important for children with suspected hydrocephalus to be evaluated promptly by a healthcare provider for diagnosis and appropriate management. Treatment may involve surgical intervention such as shunt placement to help drain excess CSF and relieve pressure on the brain. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure optimal outcomes for children with hydrocephalus. Treatment options for hydrocephalus in a paediatric clinic may involve a multidisciplinary approach involving occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and speech therapists to address cognitive, motor, and communication challenges. It is essential for these therapists to collaborate closely to create an individualised treatment plan tailored to the child’s specific needs and challenges related to hydrocephalus. Regular monitoring and adjustments to the therapy plan may be necessary to ensure optimal outcomes for the child.
Eabha (pronounced Ava) is an Occupational Therapist at NAPA Centre Syndey. Known for her enthusiasm, Eabha is passionate about making therapy sessions enjoyable for children. She believes that incorporating fun into the sessions not only helps engage the children but also enhances their progress. In addition to her professional pursuits, Eabha enjoys exploring and immersing herself in the vibrant city of Sydney. Eabha can be found unwinding by taking long walks along the beach, listening to engaging podcasts, and practising yoga..
NAPA specialises in working with children with physical and neurological delays. In addition to working with children with more common diagnoses such as cerebral palsy and Down syndrome, NAPA has a special interest and expertise with children with rare, multiple and complex conditions. NAPA Centre’s Intensive Model of Therapy (IMOT) is world-renowned, and one of the leading clinics in Australia for paediatric therapy programs with a large multi-discliplinary team of Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Speech Therapists all working together. Families routinely travel from all parts of Sydney, the NSW region, from across Australia and even from the Australasian region to access NAPA’s unique and effective programs for their children.
