Overview

Hydrocephalus means that too much fluid is building up inside your baby's brain. This extra fluid can increase pressure on the brain. It can make your baby's head look larger than normal and make the soft spots on your baby's head feel firm or bulge out.

Early treatment for your newborn can help protect the brain from long-term injury.

The goal of treatment is to lower the pressure on the brain by getting rid of the extra fluid. There are two common ways to do that:

• The doctor may place a flexible tube, called a shunt, in your baby's brain. The shunt carries the extra fluid away from the brain to another part of your baby's body, such as the belly or heart. Your baby's body can take in the extra fluid without harm.
• The doctor may perform a surgery called ETV (endoscopic third ventriculostomy). In ETV, the doctor makes a small hole in a deep part of your baby's brain. The hole allows the extra fluid to flow out of the brain and into the body, where it can be taken in without harm.

How can you care for your baby at home?

Watch for possible problems as your baby's brain develops. These could include delayed learning, problems with motor skills, and speech problems. Talk to your doctor about new problems or changes you see. Take care of yourself. Get enough rest, eat well, and exercise. Ask your doctor where to find help and support.