Essential Intracranial Hypotension (IH) is a medical condition characterized by lower than normal pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cranial cavity. This phenomenon occurs spontaneously, without any clear underlying cause or preceding trauma.
Intracranial Hypotension is an essential condition as it is not associated with any other cranial disorder, such as a cerebral tumor or infection. It arises idiopathically, meaning its cause is unknown. While rare, IH is a significant neurological condition that can result in severe symptoms and complications.
The decreased pressure of CSF in the cranial cavity can lead to a variety of symptoms. The most common symptoms include severe and persistent headaches that worsen when in an upright position and improve when lying down. These headaches may be accompanied by neck pain, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Other symptoms may include blurred vision, tinnitus, hearing loss, altered consciousness, and cognitive impairment.
To diagnose Essential Intracranial Hypotension, various tests may be performed, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT myelography, or a lumbar puncture. These tests can help visualize any leakage or identify the reduced CSF pressure.
Treatment options for Essential Intracranial Hypotension aim to increase the CSF pressure and relieve symptoms. Conservative management may include bed rest, increased fluid intake, and pain relief medications. Epidural blood patching, a procedure involving the injection of the individual's blood into the spinal canal, can also be performed to seal any CSF leaks and raise the pressure. Surgical intervention may be considered for severe cases or when other treatment methods fail to provide relief.
As the exact cause of Essential Intracranial Hypotension remains unknown, further research is needed to understand
