Congenital Hydrocephalus

Symptoms

The symptoms of congenital hydrocephalus usually are noticed at birth or within the first 9 months of life. Symptoms may not be as obvious in toddlers and older children. A baby may have:

• A large head that may get bigger very quickly. Usually a baby with congenital hydrocephalus will have a noticeably bigger head than other babies the same age.
• A slightly bulging soft spot (fontanelle) on top of the head that doesn't go away when the baby is held upright. A baby may also have larger-than-normal areas between the skull bones (sutures ).
• A shiny scalp, with prominent blood vessels.
• A downward gaze and retracted eyelids, which reveal the whites of the eyes above the irises ("sun-setting of the eyes").

If pressure in the baby's head builds, symptoms will get worse and may include:

• Irritability.
• Excessive sleeping.
• Poor appetite and frequent vomiting.
• Inability to track you well with his or her eyes.
• High-pitched crying.

Other types of hydrocephalus may produce the same or similar symptoms at any age.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: February 6, 2008
Medical Review:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Mark G. Luciano, MD - Neurological Surgery
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.