Some choose to opt for a trial of medical therapy first, but this is often not effective, and requires close monitoring of blood levels. Therefore, many cases are treated with surgery as the first option. Your doctor will determine the best kind of surgery for your particular case. Since the surgery involves the implantation of a mechanical device to control the flow of the CSF, it can fail at any time. Your doctor will decide if you need to be seen as an emergency or can simply make an appointment to come to the office.
Premature babies are at higher risk for developing hydrocephalus.
Good prenatal care will allow early diagnosis of congenital abnormalities associated with hydrocephalus, as well as reduce the risk of having a premature delivery. Early treatment of ear infections will also reduce the risk of developing meningitis-another cause of hydrocephalus. Unfortunately there are no preventive measures for protecting against many of the causes of hydrocephalus.