Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Specialist

Neurological Conditions & Treatments

Expert assessment and treatment for a range of brain and neurological conditions. Mr Sikander is an internationally renowned Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Specialist, with particular expertise in identifying conditions that may be overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Expert assessment and treatment for a range of brain and neurological conditions.

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Often Misdiagnosed, Often Treatable

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), often referred to as “water on the brain”, is caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain’s ventricles. Despite normal pressure readings, this condition can lead to a significant combination of symptoms that are commonly mistaken for dementia or age-related decline.

NPH is one of the most frequently misdiagnosed conditions in older patients. Early assessment by a specialist is essential, as appropriate treatment can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life.

Recognising the Symptoms

These three symptoms together are a hallmark presentation of NPH and should not be assumed to be simply age-related. Specialist assessment can determine whether a treatable cause is present.

Could It Be NPH?

You may wish to seek specialist advice if you or a family member are experiencing any of the following symptoms. Recognising these as potential signs of a treatable condition can allow for earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.

Other Neurological Conditions

Additional Areas of Specialist Expertise

Brain Tumours

Brain tumours can be benign or malignant and may affect different areas of the brain. Symptoms vary depending on the tumour’s size and location and may include headaches, seizures and neurological changes. Specialist assessment and tailored treatment is provided.

Chiari Malformations

Chiari malformation occurs when brain tissue extends into the spinal canal, disrupting normal cerebrospinal fluid flow. This can cause headaches, balance problems and neurological symptoms requiring specialist management.

Occipital Neuralgia

Occipital neuralgia is a neurological condition caused by inflammation or injury to the nerves that run from the top of the spinal cord up through the scalp. It causes severe, shock-like or throbbing pain at the base of the skull, often mistaken for migraines.

Peripheral Nerve Disorders

These conditions affect the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, causing pain, weakness or numbness, often in the hands or feet. Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and individual patient needs.

Diagnosis & Assessment

A Structured Approach to Accurate Diagnosis

Each patient undergoes a thorough and structured assessment to fully understand their symptoms and identify the underlying cause.

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Detailed Clinical Evaluation
A comprehensive consultation reviewing symptoms, medical history and physical examination, allowing for a clear understanding of how the condition is affecting the patient.
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Imaging - MRI & CT Scans
Advanced imaging provides detailed views of the brain or spine, helping to identify structural changes, nerve compression or other abnormalities.
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Specialist Neurological Testing
Where appropriate, further tests assess nerve function, mobility, balance or cognitive changes, particularly in more complex neurological cases.

Treatment Approach

Tailored, Evidence-Based Neurological Care

Treatment is tailored to each individual, based on their diagnosis, symptoms and overall health. The focus is always on selecting the most effective and least invasive option wherever possible.

 

Aims of Treatment

The overall goal is to improve quality of life, independence and wellbeing through accurate diagnosis and effective, personalised care.

No GP referral required

Treatment may include:

Surgical intervention for conditions requiring specialist procedures, including shunt surgery for NPH and advanced neurosurgical techniques for other conditions.

Ongoing Monitoring

Where immediate treatment is not necessary, structured monitoring ensures any changes are identified promptly and acted upon appropriately.

Multidisciplinary Care

Collaboration with other healthcare professionals ensures patients receive comprehensive, joined-up care across all aspects of their neurological health.

Why Choose Oxford Neurospine

The Right Specialist for Neurological Care

Internationally Renowned NPH Specialist

Mr Sikander has particular expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus, providing focused assessment for patients whose symptoms may otherwise be overlooked.

Experience in Misdiagnosed Conditions

Many neurological conditions, including NPH, present with symptoms similar to dementia. Mr Sikander has extensive experience identifying these conditions and providing accurate, potentially life-changing diagnosis.

Early Identification of Treatable Conditions

Care is centred on recognising subtle or progressive symptoms, allowing for timely intervention and improved long-term outcomes for patients and their families.

Access to Advanced Neurosurgical Techniques

Patients benefit from modern neurosurgical approaches, including advanced surgical techniques and evidence-based treatments designed to deliver safe and effective outcomes.

Expert Neurological Assessment in Oxford

If you are concerned about neurological symptoms in yourself or a family member, specialist assessment is available promptly at leading private facilities in Oxford.

Neurological Questions

Specialist Guidance on Neurological Conditions and NPH Symptoms

Understand the early signs of neurological conditions, including Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus and symptoms often mistaken for dementia. These FAQs provide expert insight into diagnosis, treatment and when to seek specialist care.

What are the early symptoms of neurological conditions?

Early symptoms of neurological conditions can include memory problems, balance issues, difficulty walking, nerve pain or muscle weakness. If you notice these symptoms, it is important to seek assessment from a neurological specialist or private neurosurgeon.

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) and what are the symptoms?

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), sometimes called water on the brain, is a condition caused by a build-up of fluid in the brain. Common NPH symptoms in elderly patients include walking difficulties, memory decline and loss of bladder control.

Can Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus be mistaken for dementia?

Yes, Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is one of the most commonly misdiagnosed causes of dementia. Symptoms such as memory loss and confusion can overlap, but NPH is often treatable when diagnosed early by a specialist.

How are neurological conditions diagnosed by a private neurosurgeon?

Neurological conditions are diagnosed through a detailed consultation, neurological examination and imaging such as MRI or CT scans. Additional specialist testing may be used to assess nerve function, balance or cognitive changes.

LATEST INSIGHTS

Helpful Information & Resources

Helpful information on spinal and neurological conditions, treatment options and recovery.

Annual Scientific Meeting in Anaesthesiology 2023

In 2023, Mr Sikander was invited as an international speaker at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists, where he presented on Awake Spinal Surgery.
Endoscopic Spinal Surgery at the John Radcliffe Hospital

NEW – Endoscopic Spinal Surgery at the John Radcliffe Hospital

Equipment funded by Oxford Hospitals Charity has allowed the John Radcliffe in Oxford to become one of only a handful of hospitals in the UK able to offer pioneering full endoscopic spine surgery to its patients.

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Contact Oxford Neurospine

If you would like to arrange a consultation or refer a patient, please get in touch. Oxford Neurospine provides expert care in Oxford with a focus on clear communication, accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Contact Details

London, United Kingdom

+44 (0) 738 3329 356

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