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Worried about intracranial hypertension?

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This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.

What is intracranial hypertension?

Intracranial hypertension is raised pressure around the brain. Symptoms include persistent headache, blurred or double vision, pulsing sounds in the ears, and nausea. It can be caused by an underlying condition (like a brain tumour or blood clot) or idiopathic (IIH) — a rare condition more common in women with a higher body weight. Untreated, it can cause permanent vision loss.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

  • You have a new, persistent headache that doesn't fit your usual pattern.
  • You have blurred or double vision.
  • You hear a whooshing or pulsing sound in your ears in time with your heartbeat.
  • You have brief episodes of vision loss when standing or straining.
  • You have nausea or vomiting without obvious cause alongside headache.
  • Call 999 if headache is sudden and severe ('thunderclap'), or comes with weakness, confusion, or seizures.
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Self-care information from NHS

  • Take any medications (often acetazolamide) exactly as prescribed by a specialist.
  • Attend all eye test appointments — they monitor your optic nerve for pressure damage.
  • Lose weight if overweight — even 5-10% weight loss can significantly reduce IIH symptoms.
  • Avoid medications that can worsen IIH (some antibiotics, vitamin A derivatives) — discuss with your GP.
  • Keep a headache diary to track symptoms and triggers.
  • Seek urgent care if vision changes suddenly — permanent vision loss can happen if untreated.

Common questions

What causes intracranial hypertension?

Causes include brain tumours, blood clots (cerebral venous sinus thrombosis), certain medications (tetracyclines, high-dose vitamin A), and hormonal changes. Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) has no identifiable cause and is strongly linked to obesity in women of reproductive age.

Can intracranial hypertension be cured?

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension can often be well controlled or resolved with weight loss and medications like acetazolamide. Secondary causes are treated by addressing the underlying problem. Permanent vision loss is possible if treatment is delayed.

Is intracranial hypertension the same as high blood pressure?

No — intracranial hypertension is raised pressure inside the skull, around the brain. High blood pressure (hypertension) refers to pressure in the arteries throughout the body. They're different conditions with different causes and treatments.

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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.