A rare, reversible form of dementia often mistaken for Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.

Health · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Normal pressure hydrocephalus is an uncommon condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the brain, causing mobility issues, cognitive decline, and incontinence. Unlike many neurodegenerative diseases, it is frequently treatable. Early diagnosis is critical, as prompt intervention can often reverse symptoms and restore a patient's previous quality of life.

The human brain is cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid, which protects tissues, removes waste, and delivers essential nutrients. Under normal conditions, the body produces and absorbs about a pint of this fluid daily. Normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when this delicate balance is disrupted, causing fluid to accumulate within the brain's ventricles. As these cavities enlarge, they press against surrounding tissue, leading to neurological damage.

The condition typically affects adults over the age of 60. Symptoms often manifest as a triad of challenges: difficulty walking—frequently described as a magnetic sensation where feet feel stuck to the floor—cognitive impairment, and urinary incontinence. Because these symptoms develop gradually and overlap with more common conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, NPH is frequently misdiagnosed. While secondary NPH can result from known triggers like head injuries, strokes, infections, or previous brain surgeries, the cause of primary NPH remains largely unknown.

Diagnosis involves a clinical assessment of gait, mental acuity, and bladder control, often supplemented by CT or MRI scans. In some cases, a spinal tap or temporary drain is used to determine if reducing fluid pressure alleviates symptoms. If confirmed, the standard treatment is the surgical implantation of a shunt—a thin tube that redirects excess fluid from the brain to the abdomen for absorption. An alternative procedure, endoscopic third ventriculostomy, creates a new pathway for fluid to escape. While surgery carries risks such as infection or blockage, it offers a rare opportunity to reverse symptoms that might otherwise be mistaken for permanent dementia.

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