When you hear the words ‘water on the brain,’ it instantly sounds frightening. But behind that phrase is a condition called hydrocephalus, which, while serious, is also treatable with the right care. What makes it even more important to understand is that hydrocephalus doesn’t just affect one group, it can appear in newborns, children, or even adults later in life. And for families, spotting the signs early and knowing that modern medicine offers real solutions can turn fear into hope.
We spoke to Dr Avinash Kulkarni, Consultant Neurologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, who explained hydrocephalus and how it affects different age groups.
What Is Hydrocephalus?
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. This excess fluid causes the ventricles (cavities) of the brain to enlarge, putting damaging pressure on surrounding brain tissue. It can occur at birth or shortly thereafter, or it may develop later due to injury or damage.
CSF serves to protect and cushion the brain and spinal cord. Under normal conditions, the body produces sufficient CSF daily, allowing it to circulate through the ventricles and envelop the brain and spine before being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. When CSF builds up excessively, it can disrupt brain function, leading to brain damage or even death.
Also Read: Mental Fitness: Expert Shares Why Your Brain Needs a Workout as Much as Your Body and How To Do It
Hydrocephalus In Different Age Groups
Spotting Hydrocephalus in Infants
“In newborns, the skull is still soft, so fluid buildup can make the head grow unusually fast. Parents may notice a bulging soft spot, vomiting, unusual sleepiness, irritability, or eyes that look like they’re pointing downward, a ‘sunsetting’ appearance,” said Dr Kulkarni.
Catching it early matters a lot. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can slow brain development and affect movement or thinking. The good news is that modern surgery and careful follow-up often make a real difference.
Hydrocephalus in Children
“Older children show different signs because their skulls are harder. They might get headaches, feel nauseous, vomit, have blurred vision, or struggle with balance. School performance may drop, and teachers or parents often notice concentration problems first,” added Dr Kulkarni.
Getting treatment quickly is key. Doctors sometimes put in a shunt or do a tiny endoscopic procedure to get the extra fluid out. That can help a lot, but it’s not everything. Kids usually do better when they have therapy, someone to guide them at school, and support at home.
Hydrocephalus in Adults
Adults can get hydrocephalus as well, even though it’s not as common. “It can show up after a head injury, an infection, a tumor, or as what we call normal pressure hydrocephalus. People may start having trouble walking, forget things more often, or notice bladder problems. Because these symptoms progress slowly, they can be mistaken for normal ageing or dementia,” explained Dr Kulkarni.
Doctors typically use MRI or CT scans along with a careful exam to figure out what’s happening. Surgery to reroute the fluid is often needed, and when done promptly, it can improve walking, thinking, and overall quality of life.
Foetal Hydrocephalus
Sometimes we can see hydrocephalus before a baby is born on prenatal scans. Fixing it before birth is tricky and can be risky, so it’s only done in a few special cases. Families need guidance and planning with a team of doctors to understand the risks and what’s possible.
Also Read: What Causes Blood Clots To Form In The Brain?
Treatment and Long-Term Care
“Every case is different. Many patients get a shunt to move the fluid to another part of the body. Others may have an endoscopic procedure that avoids implants. After treatment, regular check-ups are essential to make sure the system works, watch for complications, and support development or recovery,” added Dr Kulkarni.
Living With Hydrocephalus
Living with hydrocephalus can feel really overwhelming. It touches more than just health — it can change daily routines, school, work, and even moods. From what I’ve seen, noticing the signs early, asking questions, and having a supportive team make a big difference. Families who stay involved and ask about what’s happening usually manage better and feel more in control.
Bottomline
Dr Kulkarni concluded, “Hydrocephalus can appear at any age, and each group experiences it differently. Knowing the warning signs, seeking care quickly, and following the right treatment plan can make a real difference. While 'water on the brain' sounds alarming, modern medicine gives patients and families ways to manage the condition and lead fulfilling lives.”