Tina

My wife was showing symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) for most of 2023, though at the time, I had no idea what was happening. She’s never been a fan of doctors and refused to schedule a check-up during that period. She could still walk, but more slowly, and her friends began to notice changes in her personality —a topic they brought up with me often. She started arguing with me about things that didn’t make sense, and I found myself increasingly frustrated.  

Everyone—friends, neighbors, and family members—noticed her changes. They were deeply concerned and wanted to understand what was happening. My wife and I continued having strange conversations about matters that should have been part of normal, everyday life.   

As 2023 went on, she continued to slow down, and I had no answers as to why this was happening. Eventually, I convinced her to go see a doctor, but he said her symptoms were likely due to age.  

After we returned from our Thanksgiving vacation, her walking worsened, and suddenly, she couldn’t walk at all. I rushed her to the hospital, where she was finally diagnosed with NPH.  

My wife is now 65 years old. She had surgery to place a shunt to drain the excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), but unfortunately, she still experiences symptoms of incontinence, walking concerns, and is very emotional. She was recently diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia, as well as NPH. Physical Therapy (PT) has been difficult because she becomes easily agitated and often argues with those trying to help, but we are working with her primary doctor and neurologist to keep her active. 

I often wonder if maybe we waited too long to seek a diagnosis and treatment, and whether I should have pushed her harder to see a doctor, even though she’s always been strong-willed and reluctant to go. I am now her full-time caretaker, doing my best to find resources that can help her manage this condition as effectively as possible.  

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