Does hydrocephalus qualify for disability?

A diagnosis of hydrocephalus is not enough to “automatically” qualify for Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefits under either the Social Security Disability (SSDI) program or under an employer-provided group disability plan (ERISA).

Can you work if you have hydrocephalus?

Many adults diagnosed with hydrocephalus lead full lives with proper management of the condition. People diagnosed with hydrocephalus in childhood often go on to find jobs and people diagnosed in adulthood often continue working long after their diagnosis.

Is hydrocephalus a life limiting condition?

A disruption in the flow, formation, or absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may lead to hydrocephalus. It is a very dangerous condition with life-threatening consequences if left untreated.

Is hydrocephalus a hidden disability?

Both hydrocephalus and spina bifida are hidden disabilities.

Can hydrocephalus change your personality?

NPH patients may develop symptoms with frontal dominance, such as personality changes, anxiety, depression, psychotic syndromes, obsessive compulsive disorder, Othello syndrome; shoplifting and mania. Unusual appearances of NPH symptoms may hinder early diagnosis and consequently proper treatment.

Can hydrocephalus cause mood swings?

Changes in the way you walk. Forgetfulness and confusion. Mood changes. Depression.

Does hydrocephalus cause mental retardation?

The average intelligence quotient (IQ, 108) of those with uncomplicated congenital hydrocephalus is significantly higher than the group with other major central nervous system (CNS) malformations. Hydrocephalus and intracranial hemorrhage, CNS infection, or prematurity are also associated with more mental retardation.

What are the long term effects of hydrocephalus?

This can cause several long-term complications, such as: learning disabilities. speech problems. memory problems.

Can a person with hydrocephalus drive?

Hydrocephalus typically affects visual acuity, coordination, judgment, and concentration, all of the skills which are necessary to drive. Just learning how to coordinate between controlling the steering wheel and applying the accelerator or brake can be a daunting task when you have poor motor skills.

Are people with hydrocephalus smart?

The common outcome of early hydrocephalus is an uneven growth of intelligence during childhood, with nonverbal intelligence developing less well than verbal intelligence.

Can a baby with hydrocephalus walk?

Most children who have hydrocephalus make a successful recovery after surgery and go on to lead healthy lives. Many children with pediatric hydrocephalus have normal intelligence and physical development, but some may be slower to develop skills such as hand-eye coordination or learning to walk.

How long does a shunt last?

Shunting is successful in reducing pressure in the brain in most people. VP shunts are likely to require replacement after several years, especially in small children. The average lifespan of an infant’s shunt is two years. Adults and children over the age of 2 may not need a shunt replacement for eight or more years.

Can you drink alcohol with hydrocephalus?

The causes of hydrocephalus are varied and specific causes may have affected brain development. An individual’s reaction to alcohol may vary based on their type of hydrocephalus or specific response to the substance. However, drinking in excess is not good for anyone, whatever their health status.

How Serious Is shunt surgery?

A shunt is permanent, but because it can malfunction, it may have to be repaired or replaced throughout a person’s life. Other rare but serious problems can include infection and bleeding, usually within the first few weeks after the surgery.

Do VP shunts ever get removed?

Once the shunt has been proven to be unnecessary, it can be removed – typically as an outpatient procedure. Careful long-term follow-up is necessary to evaluate for recurrence of hydrocephalus requiring shunt replacement.

How long do adults with hydrocephalus live?

While some people can go 20 years or more without a complication, with a complex condition like hydrocephalus, things can change quickly therefore it’s critical to be prepared.

Is a shunt considered brain surgery?

A shunt is a hollow tube surgically placed in the brain (or occasionally in the spine) to help drain cerebrospinal fluid and redirect it to another location in the body where it can be reabsorbed.

Can you fly with a shunt?

Flying in a regular commercial jet is fine for most people with shunts. If you were told years ago not to fly, it’s worth asking your neurosurgeon again as things have changed. … Flying in a small, unpressurised plane may not be wise for people with shunts.