Signs and Symptoms of Hydrocephalus

According to the Mayo Clinic, the signs and symptoms of Hydrocephalus differ somewhat according to age.

In infants, common signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus include:

  • An unusually large head
  • A rapid increase in the size of the head
  • A bulging "soft spot" on the top of the head (anterior fontanel)
  • Vomiting
  • Sleepiness
  • Irritability
  • Seizures
  • Eyes fixed downward (sunsetting of the eyes)
  • Developmental delay

In older children and adults, common signs and symptoms of hydrocephalus include:

  • Headache followed by vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Eyes fixed downward (sunsetting of the eyes)
  • Problems with balance, coordination or gait
  • Sluggishness or lack of energy
  • Slowing or regression of development
  • Slowed development or loss of development
  • Memory loss
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Irritability
  • Changes in personality