Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a form of hydrocephalus, also known as "water on the brain," which means there is too much fluid pressing on the brain.

NPH can occur without a known cause, or it may be caused by any condition that blocks the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The fluid-filled chambers (ventricles) of the brain enlarge to fit the increased volume of CSF. They press down on and damage or destroy brain tissue.

The dementia symptoms of NPH can be similar to those of Alzheimer disease. The walking problems are similar to those of Parkinson disease. Experts believe that many cases of NPH are misdiagnosed as one of these diseases. The good news is that, unlike Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease, NPH can be reversed in many people with appropriate treatment. But first it must be correctly diagnosed.

NPH is thought to account for about 5% of all dementias.

Other types of Dementias

 Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD)

 Dementia with Lewy Bodies

 Frontotemporal Dementia

 Huntington's Disease

 Parkinson's Disease

 Vascular Dementia

 Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndromep