How Do You Diagnose Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?
Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is a neurological syndrome that can cause dementia, incontinence and changes in motor ability, especially walking. NPH differs from other forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, since it may be treated and reversed in some cases. Like Alzheimer’s, NPH occurs in elderly patients. Notice changes in the patient’s gait or movement while standing. NPH symptoms can resemble Parkinson’s Disease in that the patient is often hesitant before stepping or turning or may freeze in the middle of walking. Patients with NPH often exhibit a shuffling gait, with their feet rarely leaving the ground. Determine if there is excessive rigidity in the muscles during walking. A locked or unyielding stance may be accompanied by mild tremors and twitches. Patients with NPH rarely complain of muscle weakness or lethargy. Look for signs of incontinence. Fecal incontinence is much rarer in NPH than urinary incontinence. In many cases, incontinence does not occur, but the patient
