Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH)
Raised pressure inside the skull linked to obesity, causing headaches and vision problems that often improve with weight loss.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is a rare condition where pressure builds up inside the skull, causing headaches and vision problems. It is strongly linked to excess weight, especially in women. Losing weight is one of the most effective treatments for it.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH), formerly called pseudotumour cerebri, is a disorder of raised intracranial pressure of unknown cause, most commonly affecting women of reproductive age with obesity. It presents with headaches, transient visual obscurations, pulsatile tinnitus and papilloedema, and can lead to permanent vision loss. Weight loss of 5 to 10% is a first-line disease-modifying treatment.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
IIH is a serious but treatable complication of obesity, and weight loss can protect your vision. If you carry excess weight and experience persistent headaches or vision changes, an early medical review at Accord Medical Clinic can make a real difference.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.