Does mild hydrocephalus mean that though my baby has a larger head, she won't have any or many of the symptoms

Question

I am not even sure she has it. But I think her head growth is above the ''normal''.

Answer 1

Congenital hydrocephalus is a buildup of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain that is present at birth. The excess fluid can increase pressure in the baby's brain, possibly resulting in brain damage and loss of mental and physical abilities. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important to help limit serious long-term problems. But long-term effects of congenital hydrocephalus mostly depend on what causes it, how bad it gets, and how a baby responds to treatment.

See an illustration of congenital hydrocephalusClick here to see an illustration..

Research shows that somewhere between 0.5 to 1.8 babies out of every 1,000 are born with the condition.1 This means at least 998 babies out of every 1,000 are not born with hydrocephalus. The condition also occurs in about 80% to 90% of children who are born with open neural tube defects.2

Another form of hydrocephalus, called acquired hydrocephalus, may occur at any time after birth. This topic covers only congenital hydrocephalus.

Some babies fluid levels become more normal by time they are born. Your doctor will need to keep a VERY close eye on your child. You may want to seek out a OB specialist to oversee your pregnancy.

Good luck

Answer 2

i agree with the first answer. my child has a large head, about the 95th percentile, and he is fine. in general, hydrocephalus does cause some symptoms, although i am sure there are a few exceptions to that rule.

the thing to really watch is whether the baby's head keeps going up the growth chart. for instance, if the baby started out at the 50th percentile, then moved to the 75th, then the 95th, then i might worry a little more. if it stays pretty steady, then it is probably just normal for your child.

Answer 3

If the baby has hydrocephalus enough to cause the bones in her skull to grow abnormally (causing the head to be large), then it is likely enough fluid inside her skull to put pressure on the brain, causing problems (such mental retardation or seizures).

All babies have large heads. If you think there is something wrong, you really need to discuss it with your doctor. From there he can recommend further testing if he thinks there is a problem. There are also measures that can be taken to prevent the hydrocephalus from causing the problems, if it is caught soon enough.

Answer 4

My baby has a big head its in the 95th percentile,

but my hubby and i both have big heads so make sure that your heads are in the right place,

I don't worry about these things , you know if your baby is healthy,

Ps mom of 3 big headed boys-

nothing wrong with anyof them - except there are typical pain in the --=- Boys