What is idiopathic intracranial hypertension? Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a condition in which the pressure inside the head increases, causing vision problems, headaches and other symptoms. This happens when fluid from the brain (called cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF) does not flow out of the head as it should. When the pressure around the brain is too high, it can put pressure on the optic nerve, causing it to swell. This can eventually damage the optic nerve, often causing vision loss. High pressure can also damage the nerves that move the eyes, causing double vision. What causes idiopathic intracranial hypertension? Doctors do not know for sure what causes IIH. However, they suspect that hormones play a role, since the condition is more common in young, overweight women. Sometimes children and adults who are not overweight have IIH. These cases may be related to infection or the use of antibiotics, steroids or high doses of vitamin A. What are the symptoms of idiopathic intracranial hypertension? Headaches, often in the back of the neck. These pains can be so severe that they wake you up at night. The headaches can get worse when you bend or bend over. Changes in vision. Your vision may appear blurred, fuzzy or dull. There may be short periods of time when your vision completely disappears. You may have problems with peripheral (side) vision. You may also experience double vision or other vision problems when you bend or stoop. Hearing problems, such as a rushing, wheezing or ringing sound in the ear. Nausea and vomiting. How is idiopathic intracranial hypertension diagnosed? Your ophthalmologist will perform a series of tests to diagnose idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). These may include: Eye examination. Your ophthalmologist will check the optic nerve for swelling. He or she will also check to see if you have any blanks in your visual field. MRI or CT scan. These scans help to see if symptoms are caused by IIH or caused by other medical problems. Spinal puncture. This is when the doctor measures the pressure of the spinal fluid. He or she will also take the fluid to test it for any problems. How serious is idiopathic intracranial hypertension? Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is usually not life-threatening, but can be a lifelong problem. Although many people find that their symptoms are relieved by treatment, but symptoms can return and can have a significant impact on your life. What is the life expectancy of a person with IIH? IIH does not usually affect life expectancy. The main complications of IIH arise from untreated or refractory papilledema. In various case series, the long-term risk of significant visual deterioration as a result of IIH has been found to range from 10 to 25%. Can IIH cause a stroke? In the current study, a diagnosis of IIH was found to be statistically significantly associated with an increased risk of composite cardiovascular events, heart failure, IHD and stroke/TIA, regardless of BMI. What are the late symptoms of elevated intracranial pressure? Late symptoms of intracranial pressure, which make up the Cushing's triad, include hypertension with pulse pressure dilation, bradycardia and abnormal breathing. The presence of these symptoms indicates very late signs of brainstem dysfunction and significant inhibition of cerebral blood flow.