Can someone with hydrocephalus join the military?

Chronic non-communicating hydrocephalus diagnosed in adulthood is uncommon and may be associated with serious complications. This condition is not compatible with service in the military.

Can you join the military if you had brain surgery?

A Permanent Disqualification is for a medical condition that is permanent. A surgery, for example, is a permanent condition because it cannot be undone. A surgery doesn’t necessarily mean you cannot serve, it just means MEPS cannot process your 2807-2 without additional information.

What is a VP shunt for hydrocephalus?

A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a thin plastic tube that helps drain extra cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain. CSF is the saltwater that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord.

Can you join the military if you have migraines?

A history of recurrent headaches is currently disqualifying for military service if “they are of sufficient severity or frequency as to interfere with normal function in the past 3 years.”10 The recurrent headache category is composed predominantly of in- dividuals who suffer from migraine or tension-type headache (as …

Can you join the Army with brain damage?

The following conditions may disqualify you for military service: a. Injuries, including severe contusions and other wounds of the scalp and cerebral concussion, until a period of three months has elapsed.

Do VP shunts ever get removed?

Once the shunt has been proven to be unnecessary, it can be removed – typically as an outpatient procedure. Careful long-term follow-up is necessary to evaluate for recurrence of hydrocephalus requiring shunt replacement.

What can’t you do with a shunt?

However, people with LP shunts should avoid any activity which involves twisting at the waist, as this can dislodge the shunt.

• Martial arts. Any activity that involves being grabbed around the neck is not advised, as the shunt tubing in the neck can crack.
• Rugby.
• Gymnastics and dance.
• Water sports.
• Golf.
• Other activities.

Why choose UNC neurosurgery for hydrocephalus?

UNC Neurosurgery has much expertise in hydrocephalus in both adults and children, and we have a strong interest in helping patients who are suffering from it.

What are the treatment options for hydrocephalus in adults?

Hydrocephalus in Adults. A lumbar spinal drain is then placed and several days of spinal drainage is performed. If patients have significant improvement, as judged by their physical therapy and cognitive testing by their physician’s and family’s evaluations, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt is often placed.

What causes obstructive hydrocephalus in adults?

In adult onset of obstructive hydrocephalus, there is usually a mechanical blockage of the spinal fluid flow including tumors, webbings, Chiari malformation or prior hemorrhage.

How is normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) diagnosed?

If an MRI or CAT scan shows hydrocephalus and the patient is asymptomatic, immediate evaluation is appropriate. The condition of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is different than many forms of hydrocephalus. This disease typically is seen in older patients.