Pseudotumor cerebri

A condition that occurs when pressure inside the skull increases for no obvious reason.

Overview

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension is most common in obese women of childbearing age.

Symptoms

Symptoms mimic a brain tumor, but no tumor is present. They may include headache behind the eyes, ringing in the ears in time with the heartbeat, and brief episodes of blindness.

Treatments

The first drug usually tried is a type of diuretic that may reduce the production of spinal fluid. Surgery may relieve pressure.