This device or software is intended for use only for general wellbeing purposes or to encourage or maintain a healthy lifestyle, and is not intended to be used for any medical purpose (such as the detection, diagnosis, monitoring, management or treatment of any medical condition or disease or contraception. Any health-related information provided by this device or software should not be treated as medical advice. Please consult a physician for any medical advice required.
In a medical emergency call 995 or visit the nearest Accident & Emergency department. Use of this symptom checker shall be at your sole discretion and risk. Parkway Group Healthcare Pte Ltd and its affiliates (including Parkway Shenton Pte Ltd) do not accept any responsibility for any reliance by you on the information provided.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), also known as benign intracranial hypertension or pseudotumour cerebri, is a condition characterised by increased pressure within the skull (intracranial pressure) without an obvious cause.
This pressure can lead to swelling of the optic nerve and, if left untreated, may result in vision loss. The condition is termed "idiopathic" because its exact cause is unknown.
Types of idiopathic intracranial hypertension
IIH is generally classified based on its cause and presentation:
Primary IIH (Idiopathic). This type has no identifiable cause and is the most common form.
Secondary IIH. This type occurs due to an underlying condition or factor, such as certain medications, hormonal imbalances, or other medical conditions.
What are the symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension?
Symptoms of IIH can vary but often include:
Persistent and severe headaches, often described as throbbing and worsened by movement.
Blurred vision, double vision (diplopia), and temporary loss of vision (visual obscurations).
Papilloedema, or the swelling of the optic disc, visible during an eye examination.
Tinnitus, or a whooshing or pulsating sound in the ears.
Nausea and vomiting, often accompanying headaches and increased intracranial pressure.
Neck and shoulder pain.
Difficulty with balance and coordination.
What causes idiopathic intracranial hypertension?
The exact cause of IIH is unknown, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development:
There is a strong association between obesity and IIH, particularly in women of childbearing age.
Hormonal changes or imbalances, such as those related to the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), may play a role.
Certain medications, including oral contraceptives, antibiotics like tetracycline, and some types of steroids, can increase the risk of IIH.
High levels of vitamin A or retinoid therapy have been linked to the condition.
Conditions like sleep apnoea, kidney disease, and some autoimmune disorders can be associated with IIH.
What are the complications and related diseases for idiopathic intracranial hypertension?
If left untreated, IIH can lead to several serious complications:
Persistent increased intracranial pressure can damage the optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss.
Ongoing headaches that significantly impact quality of life.
Papilloedema, or the continued swelling of the optic nerve, causing ongoing visual disturbances.
How do you prevent idiopathic intracranial hypertension?
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent IIH, certain measures may reduce the risk:
Maintain a healthy weight. Weight management through a balanced diet and regular exercise can lower the risk of developing IIH, especially in individuals who are overweight or obese.
Monitor medications. Discuss with your healthcare provider the potential side effects of any medications you are taking, particularly those known to increase the risk of IIH.
Regular health check-ups. Routine medical examinations can help detect and manage any underlying conditions that might contribute to IIH.
Always forgetting things, like your colleagues’ names, your best friend’s birthday or where you left your house keys? Combat forgetfulness with our list of things that help and hurt your memory.
