Author(s): Salman Miki
Benign intracranial hypertension (BIH), also known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension, is a neurological condition characterized by increased intracranial pressure without a clear cause. It is most commonly seen in young overweight women, although it can affect people of any age, gender, or body type. The symptoms of BIH may include severe headaches, pulsatile tinnitus (ringing in the ears), transient visual obscurations, double vision, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms are often worse upon waking up in the morning or after changes in posture, such as standing up. If left untreated, BIH can cause vision loss and permanent damage to the optic nerves.