The Bergen County Commissioners’ Podcast highlights issues and topics that affect the daily lives of our Bergen County residents.

Nearly four years ago, my grandson was born. I clearly recall the days leading to his birth, which was filled with excitement. I also vividly remember receiving the news that he would need to be rushed into surgery shortly after his birth. The reason was a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid around his brain or what I would learn was a life-threatening neurological condition called hydrocephalus. Since then, my grandson has undergone four surgeries, but luckily does not have underlining long-term effects as many experience with hydrocephalus.

While hydrocephalus remains the most common reason for brain surgery among infants and children, it can affect anyone at any age. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 5 to 10 percent of Americans diagnosed with Alzheimers, Parkinsons, or another type of dementia may actually have a reversible condition called #NormalPressureHydrocephalus. Sadly, too many older Americans are misdiagnosed.

In this podcast episode, Amanda Garzon of the Hydrocephalus Association spoke with me and Chairwoman Mary Amoroso about what to look for in your loved ones to see if they might have #NPH and highlighted support groups in our area, if you have a family member with hydrocephalus. Make sure to tune in by listening to the podcast above or downloading it.