Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) sounds complicated — ­and it can be. This condition can be confused with dementia, including Alzheimer’s dementia. It is rare, but when it occurs, it often happens in elderly people. Causes are unknown. Sometimes treatment is available, but many people will require a surgical procedure.

NPH is caused by spinal fluid building up in the ventricles of the brain and putting pressure on the brain, which causes symptoms very similar to dementia. But, the symptoms can come and go. One day, mom or dad may seem severely forgetful, and then suddenly memory fully returns. If a doctor diagnoses your loved one with NPH, treatment may help. A shunt can be placed into the ventricles to drain off excess fluid. The patient will have to be watched carefully, but if your loved one has this condition, memory loss and other symptoms can be reversed.

While NPH is very rare, other forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, are not. The older a person becomes, the chances for dementia increase. However, a healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding weight gain can help prevent or delay some symptoms. It’s also recommended to keep cholesterol levels under control and to report any changes in personality to a primary care physician. Medications can help slow progression of Alzheimer’s dementia, and patients should have around-the-clock care, whether minimal or total care, depending on the severity of their symptoms and needs.

Legacy In-Home Care can help families through the maze of dementia’s progression. Many patients can remain at home with home care. Legacy will provide background checks for all caregivers they send to your home. Your loved ones deserve the best, and Legacy will provide the best.

For meal planning and preparation, laundry, light housekeeping, transportation assistance to doctors’ appointments, and even trips to the grocery store, Legacy has you covered. Your loved ones will be safely monitored when you can’t be there.