Contraceptives such as birth control pills, birth control shots, implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs) have been linked to causing headaches and migraines in some users. In some instances, these birth control headaches are caused by a condition known as pseudotumor cerebri which increases fluid levels in the skull, causing intracranial pressure.

When a Birth Control Headache Isn’t Just a Headache

Women who use birth control and suffer frequent headaches may be exhibiting signs of a more serious problem.

In addition to birth control headaches and birth control migraines, problems such as blind spots, temporary blindness, ringing in the ears, feeling dizzy or nauseated, neck stiffness and/or blurred vision may all be symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri.

Psuedotumor cerebi is a neurological condition that can cause permanent damage to the patient’s eyes, and induces major fear in patients. Since pseudotumor cerebri symptoms are similar to a brain tumor, patients often find themselves fearing the worst for their health. Luckily, with treatment, most cases of pseudotumor cerebri can be resolved, although the condition is not to be taken lightly.

Doctors are often concerned when patients report these side effects, and often do not diagnose the condition correctly until the patient undergoes an MRI or CT scan of their brain. Pseudotumor cerebri can also be diagnosed by a spinal tap or eye exam.

When a patient is diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri they may be advised to stop using their birth control to see if their condition improves. The link between pseudotumor cerebri and birth control is not fully understood, but it is believed by some medical researches that the hormones levonorgestrel and progestogen in birth control may cause idiopathic intracranial hypertension (another name for pseudotumor cerebri).

Pseudotumor Cerebri and Birth Control

The cause of pseudotumor cerebi is unknown, but experts believe it is likely caused by cerebrospinal fluid buildup or when the fluid is not properly released back into the bloodstream. This fluid acts as a protective layer that protects the brain and spinal cord, and is produced by the brain to be reused in the bloodstream. If  too much of this fluid is produced, however, it can cause severe pressure in the skull.

Recently, a number of birth control users have reported symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri, leaving some to wonder if their birth control is the culprit. A common complaint among those diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri is that they suffer frequent birth control headaches and/or migraines. It has been reported that the pain increases when the patient is exerting herself in exercise and other activities, which raise pressure in the skull.

Pseudotumor cerebi treatment often begins with a restricted diet to limit fluid and salt intake. This treatment plan may include diuretics to help filter out extra liquid; surgical intervention is then required if the problem remains unsolved.

Pseudotumor Cerebri Birth Control Lawsuits

A number of women have filed birth control lawsuits against manufacturers for failing to adequately warn them of the risk of pseudotumor cerebri from birth control. If you were diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri after using birth control, you may have a legal claim. A birth control lawsuit may help you recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.