Did you know? Some interesting information you might not be aware of regarding shunts and hydrocephalus

I. Highs and lows

A fellow hydrocephalic posted on Facebook that if there is a storm approaching, she tends to become very lethargic. That made me curious, so I did some research and hydrocephalus (particularly if the person is shunted) tends to be effected by changes in the weather. According to published research, fluctuations in barometric pressure can affect people who suffer from headaches such as those of us with hydrocephalus. It is interesting to note that the study particularly addressed this phenomenon as it applies to migraine sufferers, however, it stands to reason that if it affects someone who suffers from migraines, it would also affect someone with hydrocephalus. According to the National Hydrocephalus Foundation, the majority of persons with hydrocephalus - and who are shunted - will be affected periodically by an approaching weather system (particularly if it's an area of low pressure). Symptoms accompanying this "feeling out of sorts" include having no energy as well as being unable to concentrate. If it develops into a full-blown headache, the best remedy is to find a dark, comfortable place and ride out the storm. The good news is, once the area of low-pressure causing your distress is directly overhead, symptoms will cease almost immediately.

II. Recovery from surgery

People who have had an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) or a shunt implant usually have a four (4) to six (6) week recovery period before they begin to feel like themselves again. The biggest thing patients experience is getting their strength back and the best way to speed up is to take short walks - sound down the block and back - and gradually increase your distance as your stamina improves. Perhaps equally as important as exercising your body post surgery, is to exercise your mind. For those who enjoy playing cards, medical experts say that a game of solitaire, bridge, or even poker will do wonders to improve short-term memory.



For additional information: Patient-to-patient: tricks of the trade