Hydrocephalus

[Pete H]

I received a NPH shunt in May. I have had great results with mobility and most of my other symptoms went away. But now I seem to be having trouble focusing, especiallly when I am reading. I have had my shunt adjusted to a higher pressure and subsequently (3 mos later) it was readjusted to the lower pressure level set during surgery. Still no improvement 1 month after reajustment to the surgery pressure level. I am wondering if others with shunts hae had this problem or other vision problems
Thanks, Pete

[mp327]

Hi Pete--

I am glad to read that your shunt has relieved most of your symptoms related to the hydro. However, sorry to hear of the vision problems. Has it been determined that these are absolutely due to the hydro, or could there be another cause? What is your age? The only reason I ask is because I am 55 years old and my vision has deteriorated due to age. Once my vision began to decline in mid-life, it went fast. Reading glasses are a must, and I now have trouble watching television and driving. I am sure this is all due to the natural aging process and not the hydrocephalus.

The only other problem related to my vision is nystagmus, a condition which causes the eyes to literally "jitter." This is a neurological problem, and unfortunately, not much can be done for it. It may or may not be related to the hydro--no one has been able to answer that question. It is not noticeable to me most of the time. But when I am especially tired, it bothers me. Also, when I look at anything with lines (such as striped wallpaper or window blinds), I really notice it.

I wish you the best in trying to the find the cause of your vision problems and hope you can find a remedy. May you continue to have relief of all your other hydro-related symptoms. Take care.

Martha

[Pete H]

Hello. Thanks for your comments. My recent visit to an eye specialist that specializes in eye neuro problems related to me that I have "partial dorsal midbrain syndrome with bilateral fourth nerve palsies".

I have an appointment with my NPH Doc in about one week. If I learn anything more I will revert to you.

Thanks again for your reply.

Kind Regards
Pete H

[Pete H]

My reply of a few minutes ago re eye problems after NPH surgery should have referenced Martha's reply to me.

Sorry about this oversight. Yours was my first reply and I am not yet used to this sites reply mechanism. Cheers
Pete H

[mp327]

Pete--

Just a short note to thank you for updating me on how you are doing. I hope there is something that can be done to alleviate the vision troubles. Also, I would appreciate an update from you when you learn more about this syndrome, as I'm always eager to learn more about hydrocephalus and any related problems. Good luck with the appointment next week.

Martha

[ch423]

YESSSSSS

I've had six surgeries to try and correct my hydrocephalus.

I used to be a really good student, 4.0 top of class, etc.

Each time I get a revision though, I swear it gets worse. My eyesight is permanently blurry, I read ridiculously slow, and my memory went out the window.

I now have to devote my entire life to school...I never go out....always studying. It sucks though when I get back tests with a 50% written on them. Ah how I wish for the days when I could think and see straight...

I actually went in for a scan, my ventricles haven't grown any. So I'm pretty sure I'm just an idiot now.

[ch423]

I am sorry my last post wasn't meant to be discouraging (I apologize if it was. I am especially frustrated today.)

What I can tell you is that another surgery may help to correct this (i.e. shunt revision).

Also I have heard of people receiving lasik surgery after hydrocephalus surgery as well.

Good luck with everything. I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful.