Increased intracranial pressure means that the pressure inside the skull is abnormally high, which may cause damage to the brain. There is normally a small amount of pressure inside the skull. This pressure can become elevated from various conditions. An increased pressure in the skull can put too much pressure on the brain and decrease blood flow to the brain.
Increased pressure can also force the brain downward onto the brainstem.
This area controls vital functions like breathing, so this is a potentially fatal problem. There are other causes, and in some cases the cause is not known. Generally, nothing can be done to prevent the condition. The healthcare provider will start with a history and physical exam. A cranial CT scan or cranial MRI scan , two special types of x-ray tests, may be taken of the brain and skull.