Benign Intracranial Hypertension Symptoms

Overview

When the pressure inside of the skull becomes elevated for no clear reason, it leads to a condition called benign, or idiopathic, intracranial hypertension. Also referred to as pseudotumor cerebri, benign intracranial hypertension symptoms can falsely mimic those caused by a brain tumor. Though problems caused by the condition are often reversible, it is vital that you seek treatment right away to prevent permanent and serious complications from occurring.

Head Symptoms

According to the UCLA Health System, a headache is the most common symptom of benign intracranial hypertension. Reported in approximately 94 percent of all patients, headaches can be extremely severe or fluctuate in intensity, and they are often worse in the morning hours. Almost one-third of patients will experience a feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness, as well as nausea, a symptom that may be brought on by the headache.

The National Institutes of Health advises that babies with benign intracranial hypertension may also have a noticeably larger head. Very young infants whose skull sutures have not yet closed may demonstrate a bulging around the fontanelle, or soft spot.

Papilledema and Vision Changes

Adverse effects on vision are also very common symptoms of benign intracranial hypertension, found in roughly 48 percent of patients, according to the UCLA Health System. Affected individuals may notice intermittent periods of blurred or distorted vision, usually starting with their peripheral vision. Diplopia, or double vision, is also quite common. According to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library, these minor changes in vision often go unnoticed until intracranial hypertension has progressed significantly. Permanent partial or complete vision loss is possible in some cases.

Papilledema, a swelling of the optic nerve of the eye, is also a common symptom caused by increased pressure inside of the skull. According to Merck Manuals, papilledema usually occurs in both eyes, although some people may develop it in one eye only or not at all. The condition sometimes causes momentary changes in vision, but usually must be detected through an eye exam conducted by an ophthalmologist.

Tinnitus

Benign intracranial hypertension may also cause symptoms of tinnitus, or a ringing in the ears. In addition to a ringing sound, some people may hear a buzzing, hissing, whirring or roaring sound. According to Merck Manuals, pulsatile tinnitus--a rhythmic noise matching the beat of the pulse or heart that is caused by a change in the rate or pressure of blood flow in the vessels around the ears--is especially common among those with pseudotumor cerebri.