Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Increased intracranial pressure is pressure that builds up inside the skull. This puts pressure on the brain. It can happen because of a head injury or other problems, such as a tumor or bleeding in or around the brain. The condition is usually an emergency. If not treated, it can lead to brain injury. There are many causes for this condition. They may include: Symptoms may include: The doctor will do a physical exam and ask about your past health. The doctor may check to see if your pupils are large (dilated). You may have imaging tests, like a CT scan, or other tests to check for the cause. You may have a procedure to check the pressure in your brain. Treatment helps lower the pressure in your brain. Treatment is usually managed in the intensive care unit (ICU). The doctor will treat the cause of the increased pressure, if possible. This may include removing a blood clot or tumor or treating other problems such as increased fluid in the brain. Your care team will help you stay comfortable, with your head slightly raised. They will help position you to avoid any strain or rotation in your neck. You may be given medicines to help lower the pressure in your brain and to manage other problems. You may get medicines to help keep you calm and relaxed (sedated). This can help lower the pressure by slowing down some of your body's functions. If needed, you may take medicines to help control your blood pressure or reduce fever. The doctor may use a device to check the pressure or drain fluid from your brain. They will also closely watch your blood pressure and other vital signs. You'll probably have imaging tests to help check on your condition. If needed, the doctor may put you on a ventilator (breathing machine) for a short time. This may help relieve the pressure by helping you breathe faster. In some cases, surgery is done to remove a small piece of the skull to relieve pressure. Current as of: December 20, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: December 20, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Topic Contents
Increased Intracranial Pressure
Overview
What causes it?
What are the symptoms?
How is it diagnosed?
How is increased intracranial pressure treated?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: December 20, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardIncreased Intracranial Pressure
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.