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Patient Self-Help Groups

Connect with others who share similar experiences. Our neurosurgery self-help groups provide patients and caregivers with emotional support, practical advice, and reliable resources to navigate recovery and long-term care.

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How to Maintain a Headache Diary?

December 8, 2025/

Keeping a headache diary is an effective way to track headaches, identify triggers, and share important information with your healthcare provider. Here’s how to create and maintain your diary: ...

Back Pain and Shoulder Bags: Understanding the Risks and Prevention Strategies Introduction

November 18, 2025/

Shoulder bags are a popular accessory for carrying personal items due to their convenience and style. However, their regular use has been associated with musculoskeletal discomfort, particularly back pain. Understanding...

Hard Collar Use and Care Guide

October 29, 2025/

Hard Collar Use and Care Guide Understanding Your Hard Collar A hard collar is a medical device used to support and stabilize your neck and cervical spine. It is often...

Protecting Spinal Health: Ergonomics and Prevention Strategies for Motorcyclists and Bikers

October 11, 2025/

Introduction Motorcycling is a popular activity enjoyed worldwide, serving both as a mode of transportation and a recreational pursuit. While the thrill of riding offers numerous benefits, it also poses...

Hydrocephalus Group

Understanding Hydrocephalus: A Patient's Guide

What is Hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain. This can cause increased pressure inside the skull, leading to swelling and potential damage to brain tissues.

What are the Symptoms of Hydrocephalus?
Symptoms can vary depending on age and severity but may include:

Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Vision changes
Balance and coordination problems
Cognitive difficulties
Urinary disturbances (incontinence)
Tiredness or lethargy
In infants: a bulging soft spot (fontanel), rapid head growth, or irritability

Can hydrocephalus affect the elderly?

Yes, hydrocephalus can occur at any age. Even though, congenital hydrocephalus is common, normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs in the elderly which will require attention, diagnosis and correct management.

Common symptoms include memory loss, urinary disturbances and walking difficulty. This triad of symptoms are well recognised and may occur independent of each other.

Recognition of the symptoms early in the disease, helps in early management of the disease, and better quality of life.

Do all hydrocephalus conditions need surgery?

No, some types of hydrocephalus such as “arrested” hydrocephalus, do not need surgery, but careful observation and follow-up.

What Causes Hydrocephalus?
Possible causes include:

Congenital factors (present at birth) such as spina bifida or genetic conditions
Acquired factors such as brain tumors, infections (meningitis), head injuries, or bleeding within the brain

How is Hydrocephalus Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:

Medical history and physical examination
Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans to visualize the ventricles and assess fluid buildup

What are the Treatment Options?
Treatment primarily involves surgically diverting the excess fluid:

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt: A tube inserted into the ventricles to divert fluid to the abdomen
Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): A procedure creating an opening in the brain to allow fluid to bypass the obstruction

What is a Shunt, and How Does it Work?
A shunt is a flexible tube that relieves pressure by redirecting CSF from the brain to another part of the body where it can be absorbed, usually the abdomen – your tummy. Shunts are usually durable but may require adjustments or replacement over time.

Are There Risks or Complications?
Yes, potential risks include infection, shunt blockage, or malfunction, which may require medical intervention. Regular follow-up is essential.

Can Hydrocephalus be Treated Successfully?
Many patients experience significant improvement and can lead active lives with proper management. Early diagnosis and treatment are key.

Living with Hydrocephalus
Patients should follow their healthcare provider’s advice, attend regular check-ups, and report any new or worsening symptoms promptly. Support groups and counseling can also help in managing the condition.

Where can I get more information or assistance?
www.chennaibrainandspine.com

Join the self help group to join a community of patients with this illness. Learn and get regular updates on hydrocephalus from our self help group.

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Stroke Group

Q: What is a stroke?
A: A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. This can cause brain cells to die, leading to potential disability or death if not treated quickly.

Q: What are the different types of stroke?
A: There are three main types:

Ischemic Stroke:Caused by a blood clot or plaque blocking blood flow to the brain.
Hemorrhagic Stroke:Caused by bleeding in or around the brain due to a ruptured blood vessel.
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA):A temporary blockage that resolves on its own, often called a "mini-stroke."

Q: What are common symptoms of a stroke?
A: Symptoms include sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, vision problems, dizziness, loss of balance, and a severe headache.

Q: How is a stroke diagnosed?
A: Doctors perform a physical and neurological exam, and use imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI to determine the type, location, and severity of the stroke. Blood tests and other studies may also be done.

Q: How is a stroke treated in the hospital?
A:

Ischemic Stroke:Fast treatment with clot-dissolving drugs like tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) if given within a specific timeframe.
Hemorrhagic Stroke:Care to control bleeding and reduce pressure in the brain; surgery may be needed in some cases.
Supportive treatments include managing blood pressure, oxygen, and preventing complications.

Q: When is surgery required in stroke management?
A: Surgery may be necessary in cases of hemorrhagic stroke to remove blood clots or relieve pressure caused by bleeding. It is also considered if there is a large hemorrhage or if the brain is compressed.
Use of minimally invasive or endoscopic hematoma evacuation - This newer approach involves less invasive techniques to remove blood clots or hematomas, reducing recovery time, minimizing trauma, and lowering the risk of complications. Such procedures are increasingly being used in carefully selected patients with suitable hematoma size and location.

Q: What are the long-term treatments and rehabilitation options?
A: Rehabilitation may include physical therapy to regain movement, speech therapy for language difficulties, and occupational therapy for daily activities. Medications are prescribed to prevent future strokes, such as blood thinners, and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, healthy eating, and exercise are important.

Q: How can I prevent a future stroke?
A: Control high blood pressure, manage diabetes and cholesterol, stop smoking, limit alcohol, stay active, eat healthily, and follow your doctor’s advice regarding medications.

Q: What should I do if I suspect someone is having a stroke?
A: Call emergency services immediately. Remember the acronym FAST:

Face drooping
Arm weakness
Speech difficulty
Time to call emergency services

Q: What is important about follow-up care?
A: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor your health, adjust medications, and prevent recurrence. Rehabilitation and emotional support are also vital for recovery and improving quality of life.

Where can I get more information or assistance?
www.chennaibrainandspine.com

Join the self help group to join a community of patients with this illness. Learn and get regular updates on Stroke from our self help group.

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Glioma Group

Q: What is a glioma?
A: A glioma is a type of brain or spinal cord tumor that originates from glial cells, which support nerve cells. They can range from slow-growing to highly aggressive tumors.

Q: What are the common types of gliomas?
A: The main types include astrocytomas (including glioblastoma which is high-grade), oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas.

Q: What symptoms might I experience with a glioma?
A: Symptoms can include headaches, seizures, weakness or numbness in parts of the body, changes in vision or speech, and cognitive difficulties, depending on the tumor's location.

Q: How is a glioma diagnosed?
A: Diagnosis usually involves neurological examination, MRI or CT scans, and a biopsy to confirm the tumor type and grade.

Q: What are the treatment options available?
A: Treatment may involve surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or clinical trials, depending on the tumor's type and stage.

Q: What is the prognosis for someone with a glioma?
A: The outlook varies based on the tumor type, location, and treatment response. While some gliomas grow slowly, others like glioblastoma tend to be more aggressive with a poorer prognosis.

Q: What should I know about patient care and follow-up?
A: Regular follow-up with your healthcare team is essential to monitor for tumor recurrence or progression. This may include periodic MRI scans, neurological assessments, and managing treatment side effects. Support services, counseling, and rehabilitation can also aid recovery and quality of life.

Q: What are perioperative events I should be aware of?
A: During surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, neurological deficits, and reactions to anesthesia. Postoperative care involves close monitoring for swelling, bleeding, or neurological changes, pain management, and early mobilization to prevent complications. Rehabilitation therapies may be needed to recover function.

Where can I get more information or assistance?
www.chennaibrainandspine.com

Join the self help group to join a community of patients with this illness. Learn and get regular updates on Glioma from our self help group.

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Neck Pain Group

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Headache Pain Group

Q: What is a headache?
A: A headache is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages and can vary in intensity and duration.

Q: What are the common types of headaches?
A: The main types include:

Tension Headaches:Often described as a feeling of tightness or pressure around the head.
Migraine:A headache often associated with throbbing pain, nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes visual disturbances.
Cluster Headaches:Severe headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or clusters, often around one eye.
Other types:Including sinus headaches, medication overuse headaches, and secondary headaches due to underlying conditions.

Q: What are the symptoms of different headache types?
A:

Tension Headache:Mild to moderate ache, feeling like a band around the head, usually bilateral.
Migraine:Intense throbbing or pulsatile pain, often on one side, with possible nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.
Cluster Headache:Severe, sharp pain around one eye, often with redness, tearing, or nasal congestion.

Q: What are red flag signs in headaches that require urgent medical attention?
A: Be alert for the following warning signs:

Sudden, severe headache ("thunderclap headache")
Headache associated with fever, neck stiffness, or rash
Headache following a head injury or trauma
New or worsening headache in the elderly
Headache with neurological symptoms like weakness, numbness, vision changes, or difficulty speaking
Headache during pregnancy or with new onset in women over 50
Headaches that do not respond to usual treatments
If you experience any of these signs, seek medical attention immediately.

Q: How are headaches diagnosed?
A: A healthcare provider will review your medical history, symptoms, and perform a physical and neurological examination. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans may be needed to rule out underlying causes.

Q: How are headaches treated?
A:

Lifestyle modifications:Adequate hydration, regular sleep, stress management, and avoiding triggers.
Medications:Over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen or NSAIDs), migraine-specific medications (triptans), and preventive medications in frequent or severe cases.
Relaxation techniques:Biofeedback, meditation, and physical therapy can help reduce frequency and severity.

Q: When should I see a doctor for headaches?
A: Seek medical care if your headaches are sudden and severe, if they worsen over time, are associated with neurological symptoms, or if they are not responding to usual treatments.

Q: How are headaches managed long-term?
A: Managing triggers, maintaining a headache diary, taking preventive medications if prescribed, and adopting lifestyle changes can reduce the frequency and severity of headaches.

Q: When is surgery indicated for headaches?
A: Surgery is rarely needed for headaches but may be considered in certain cases, such as:

Chronic headaches caused by structural abnormalities, like tumors or vascular malformations, that require removal.
Certain secondary headaches linked to compressive lesions or conditions that do not respond to medication.
Occipital nerve/compression nerve decompression surgeries for refractory occipital neuralgia, which can cause severe head and neck pain resistant to conservative treatments.

Q: Are minimally invasive or endoscopic procedures used in headache treatment?
A: Yes, in some cases, minimally invasive procedures like nerve blocks or endoscopic nerve decompression may be performed for specific headache types, such as occipital neuralgia or cervicogenic headaches, especially when conservative treatments fail.

Where can I get more information or assistance?
www.chennaibrainandspine.com

Join the self help group to join a community of patients with this illness. Learn and get regular updates on Headache from our self help group.

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Back pain

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