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What to Avoid When Dealing with Intracranial Hypertension

Dr. Chimezie C. Amanambu, M.D • Jul 10, 2023

Intracranial hypertension is a condition where cerebrospinal fluid causes brain swelling, as well as increased blood volume in the blood vessels around the brain. This condition requires careful management — including avoiding certain foods and activities. Here’s what you should know.

Foods to Avoid

Individuals suffering from intracranial hypertension are generally advised to limit their intake of salt and fats. This is because intracranial hypertension is often linked to being overweight. Excess salt increases water retention, while too much fat will pack on extra calories, making it harder to lose weight. Weight loss is key to mitigating this condition.


Patients should also generally avoid foods that are high in vitamin A or tyramine. You may need to limit the consumption of certain vegetables like leafy greens, carrots, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. Preserved and smoked foods like pepperoni, pickles, aged cheese, salami, beer, and wine should be avoided. Nuts and olives may also need to be limited.


Caution With Activities

Intracranial hypertension can make it harder for your body to control its internal temperature when exposed to excess heat and sunlight. As such, patients should stay in the shade or indoors on hot days.


Some individuals with intracranial hypertension receive a surgically inserted lumbar peritoneal shunt to divert excess fluid. For patients with a shunt, twisting and stretching exercises, somersaults, and sports like rugby and judo should be avoided to prevent interfering with the shunt. Patients should also avoid extreme activities like bungee jumping or riding amusement park rides with negative G-force.


If you are dealing with intracranial hypertension, book an appointment with Pax Medical Associates today. Dr. Chimezie Amanambu and his staff will help you develop a personalized care plan so you can safely manage your condition and improve your overall well-being.

Ensuring Road Safety: Dr. Amanambu's DOT Examination Services in Akron

By Dedric Isaac • 01 May, 2024
In the bustling streets of Akron and in our surrounding region, commercial drivers play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving. However, the safety of these drivers and the public depends significantly on their physical, mental, and emotional fitness. Recognizing this, Dr. Chimezie Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates offer comprehensive Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations, adhering to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requirements to ensure that commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers are in peak condition to navigate the roads safely. Who Needs a DOT Physical? If you're behind the wheel of a vehicle designed to carry more than 15 people, are compensated to drive a vehicle carrying more than 8 passengers, transport hazardous materials requiring a placard, or operate a vehicle weighing over 10,000 pounds on interstate highways, a DOT physical is mandatory for you. This examination is a prerequisite to obtaining your Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC), a vital document that, along with your commercial driver’s license (CDL), legitimizes your status as a commercial driver for up to two years. The DOT Physical Process Dr. Amanambu's approach to the DOT physical is thorough and patient-centric, ensuring not just compliance with regulations but also prioritizing the driver's health and well-being. The examination encompasses a detailed review of the driver's medical history, including any surgeries, medications, and health conditions. A hands-on physical assessment follows, evaluating various health aspects from vision and hearing to cardiovascular health and neurological function. A urinalysis is also conducted to screen for underlying medical issues such as diabetes and kidney disease. Preparing for Your Examination To streamline your visit, Dr. Amanambu recommends coming prepared with a list of your medications, doctors' contact information, and any necessary corrective devices like glasses or hearing aids. For drivers managing conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea, bringing recent health records and treatment compliance reports can facilitate a smoother evaluation process. Navigating Health Conditions Certain health issues may necessitate more frequent examinations. Conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease might require annual reviews, while others, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, could lead to quarterly assessments. Dr. Amanambu's expertise ensures that drivers receive the guidance needed to manage their conditions effectively, aiming for optimal health and safety on the road. Dr. Amanambu and Pax Medical Associates stand at the forefront of ensuring the safety and health of Akron's commercial drivers through meticulous DOT physical examinations. Our commitment to thorough assessments and personalized care helps drivers meet regulatory requirements while fostering a safer driving environment for everyone. If you're a commercial driver, don't wait until the last minute to renew your certification. Book an appointment with Dr. Amanambu today and take the first step towards securing your health and livelihood on the road.

Knowing When to Consult Dr. Amanambu: The Right Time for Internal Medicine Care

26 Apr, 2024
In the journey towards maintaining optimal health, understanding the right time to seek medical attention is crucial. Dr. Chimezie Amanambu, our distinguished internal medicine doctor at Pax Internal Medicine Associates, emphasizes the importance of not delaying care for health concerns. Early intervention can be the key to preventing manageable conditions from becoming serious health issues. Recognizing the Signs Many people wonder when it's necessary to consult an internal medicine doctor. Symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, chronic pain, or fluctuations in blood pressure and blood sugar levels are clear indicators that it's time to see a specialist. Dr. Amanambu advises that listening to your body's signals is the first step towards taking control of your health. The Role of Preventive Care Preventive care is a cornerstone of internal medicine. Regular check-ups with Dr. Amanambu can identify risk factors and early signs of diseases before they develop into more significant problems. These visits are not just about screening for diseases; they're an opportunity to discuss lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and exercise that can improve your overall well-being. Why Waiting Can Be Costly Delaying medical consultation can lead to conditions worsening or the emergence of complications, making treatment more difficult and recovery longer. Dr. Amanambu stresses that early diagnosis and treatment often result in better health outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications. His approach combines cutting-edge medical knowledge with compassionate care, ensuring patients receive the most effective and timely interventions. Personalized Care at Pax Internal Medicine Associates At Pax Internal Medicine Associates, Dr. Amanambu tailors his approach to each patient's unique needs. Understanding that every individual's health journey is different, he provides personalized care plans designed to address specific health concerns and promote long-term health. His expertise in internal medicine allows him to manage a wide range of conditions, ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care under one roof. Waiting to seek medical attention can be a gamble with your health—one that's not worth taking. If you're experiencing health issues or if it's simply time for your annual check-up, consulting with Dr. Amanambu is a step in the right direction. His expertise in internal medicine, combined with a proactive approach to healthcare, makes him an invaluable ally in your quest for a healthier life. Remember, in healthcare, timing is everything, and early intervention is often the key to a successful outcome. Take the time today to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Amanambu.
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