tect the head of an infant/child from injury by handling the child carefully. Prompt treatment of infections (such as meningitis) and other disorders associated with hydrocephalus may reduce the risk of developing the disorder.SymptomsEARLY SYMPTOMS, IN INFANTS*enlargement of the head (see increased head circumference)*bulging fontanelles (soft spots of the head) with or without enlargement of the head size*sutures - separatedSYMPTOMS OF CONTINUED HYDROCEPHALUS*irritability, poor temper control*muscle spasticity (spasmLATE SYMPTOMS*decreased mental function*delayed development*decreased movement*slow or restricted movement*difficulty feeding*lethargy, excessive sleepiness*urinary incontinence (loss of control over bladder)*brief, shrill, high-pitched cry*slow growth (child 0-5 years)IN OLDER INFANTS AND CHILDRENSymptoms vary depending on the amount of damage caused by pressure in the brain. Symptoms may be similar to symptoms of progression of hydrocephalus in children, or may include the following or other symptoms:*headache*vomiting*vision changes*crossed eyes*uncontrolled eye movements*loss of coordination*poor gait (walking pattern)*mental aberrations (such as confusion or psychosis)Signs and TestsTapping with the fingertips (percussion) on the skull may show abnormal sounds associated with thinning and separation of skull bones. Scalp veins may appear dilated. The circumference of the head may be large, or there may be enlargement of only part of the head, most commonly the frontal area. Measurements of the circumference of the head, repeated over time, may show progressive enlargement. The eyes may be depressed, with a "setting-sun" sign where the sclera (white portion of the eye) is visible above the iris (colored portion of the eyes). A neurologic examination may show focal neurologic deficits (localized loss of function), and reflexes may be abnormal for the age of the child.Tests:*Transillumination of the head (shining a light...
