Key Features of Increased Intracranial Pressure
Decreased LOC (lethargy to coma).
Behavior changes; restless, irritable, and confused.
Headache.
Nausea and vomiting.
Change in speech pattern.
Aphasia.
Slurred speech.
Change in sensorimotor status.
Pupillary changes; dilated and nonreactive or constricted and nonreactive pupils.
Cranial nerve dysfunction.
Ataxia.
Seizures.
Cushing’s triad: increased BP, widening of pulse rate and decreased heart rate.
Abnormal posturing: Decerebrate (latest stage) or decorticate (latest stage).