NPH Clinic

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

Hydrocephalus occurs when there is an excess accumulation of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. It can be caused by a variety of disorders affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms of NPH may include:

• Gait disturbances - from mild imbalance to the inability to stand or walk
• Mild dementia - a loss of interest in daily activities, slowed responsiveness, difficulty sustaining mental focus
• Urinary incontinence - trouble with bladder control, bladder frequency / urgency

Treatment

The most common available treatment for normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is the surgical implantation of a shunt. If results from MRI or evaluation show that an insertion of a shunt may benefit the individual, a high-volume spinal tap may be used. During this procedure, doctors remove a large amount of spinal fluid and then observe the patient for about 30 to 60 minutes. They look for any improvements in walking, thinking, and reasoning.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit Conemaugh Memorial Center’s NPH clinic for treatment

NPH Clinic
1111 Franklin Street, Suite 130
Johnstown, PA 15905
Phone: (814) 534-6744.