In communicating hydrocephalus, the fluid pathways are open, but the brain still can’t drain properly. Pressure builds slowly, so signs often creep in over weeks or months. The first clue is a gait that feels “stuck.” Each step is short, shuffling, and glued to the floor; turning around takes several small pivots instead of one smooth move. Urge incontinence follows. You feel fine, then suddenly must reach a bathroom within seconds. At night, the trip may come too late. Thinking turns murky. Short-term memory slips—why you opened the fridge, where the car keys live. Conversations pause while you hunt for... Learn more