A Guide Shunt Malfunction
Signs of acute shunt malfunction or blockage may include:
- vomiting or nausea
- dizziness
- headache
- drowsiness
- photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- fits
- + other visual disturbances
If someone with a shunt (or who has had Hydrocephalus treated by 3rd ventriculostomy) displays all or some of the above
THINK SHUNT
ACTION
Ask for perosns shunt alert card & look for name of neurosurgeon. Phone neurosurgical unit & speak to Ward Sister or Neurosurgical Registrar. Do NOT leave message with ward clerk or junior
Inform next of kin
It may be necessary to arrange transport to a neurosurgical unit. Do NOT allow the person to be transported to local district hospital (unless unconscious or very ill)
ANYONE WITH SHUNT BLOCKAGE (OR MALFUNCTION OF 3 RD VENTRICULOSTOMY) NEEDS TO BE SEEN AT A SPECIALIST NEUROSURGICAL UNIT WITHIN 4 HOURS OF ACUTE SYMPTOMS DEVELOPING
Shunt malfunction may present as a chronic condition (ie over some time - weeks or even months)
If the person with Hydrocephalus presents with:
- Fatigue
- Behaviour Changes
- General Malaise
- Decline in academic performance
- Visuo-perceptual problems
- Being just “not right”
THE SITUATION NEEDS TO BE DISCUSSED
Do not assume that someone else will tell them or that they will necessarily notice “vague” symptoms
Everyone with Hydrocephalus needs to be well hydrated and have access to clear fluids (not “coke” or any drink containing caffeine) especially in hot weather, after exercise or if involved in heavy/manual work
If you have a problem or query you can ASBAH’s Helpline on 0845 450 7755 Monday – Friday at local call rates or email via helpline@asbah.org.
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