What are late signs of increased ICP?

Late signs of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) indicate severe underlying pathology and are critical for urgent intervention. Cheyne-Stokes respirations and bradycardia are both significant markers of advanced neurological compromise.

Cheyne-Stokes respirations are characterized by a distinctive pattern of breathing that alternates between deep and shallow breaths, often seen in patients with brain injury. This type of respiration occurs due to the brain's inability to regulate breath effectively in response to changes in carbon dioxide levels, which can occur as ICP rises.

Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, often accompanies elevated ICP as well. This occurs as a response to increased intracranial pressure affecting the autonomic nervous system's control over heart rate. The combination of these findings indicates that the brain is under significant stress, and interventions are necessary to alleviate the pressure.

Seizures can also occur with increased ICP, as the pressure may irritate brain tissue and disrupt normal electrical activities. Therefore, recognizing these late signs is essential for critical care providers to guide timely and effective management.

Restlessness and confusion, while concerning, are typically earlier signs of increased ICP and indicate that the brain is still responding to some stimuli, rather than being in a critical state.