Which signs might indicate increased intracranial pressure in a child with hydrocephalus?

Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a significant concern in children with hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid that can lead to swelling of the brain. One common manifestation of this increased pressure is the presence of headaches, which may be frequent or severe due to the increased volume within the cranial cavity. Vomiting is also a key sign, as it can occur as a response to the irritation of the brain due to the pressure exerted on it, affecting the regions that control nausea and vomiting.

Together, headaches and vomiting indicate that the brain is under stress and that the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid may be disrupted, warranting immediate medical evaluation and intervention. Continuous monitoring for these symptoms in children with hydrocephalus is crucial, as timely recognition of increased ICP can lead to interventions that potentially prevent serious complications or long-term neurological damage.

In contrast, signs such as fatigue, lethargy, weight gain with increased appetite, or improved balance do not typically correlate as directly with increased intracranial pressure and may not indicate an acute change in the child's neurological status.