How can idiopathic intracranial hypertension be managed?

Hi doctor,

I have been diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension. My CSF result from lumbar puncture was 12.59 inches. I have some questions about IIH. Is IIH a disease or a condition? Is a LP of 12.59 inches and above normal? Is this disease curable? I have been taking tablet Acetazolamide 1000 mg. Does 1000 mg of tablet Acetazolamide keep the optic nerves swollen or will the headaches persist? Is shunt surgery done for LP 12.59 inches? Can tablet Acetazolamide be taken in breaks (taking for two days, followed by stopping it for a day and then repeating it)? What can it do for eye papilledema and headaches? Is this method efficient? Can I feel a change or experience pain on the day when I am not taking the tablet? Can the disease cause blindness? What will happen over time? Kindly help.

Thank you for the reply doctor,

I am writing on behalf of my wife, who is 41 years old, stands at a height of 5 feet, and weighs 105 pounds. She is childless. Stronger symptoms of her condition began manifesting approximately two years ago, notably characterized by her eyes flooding and occasional complete vision loss when leaning over. Following these symptoms, she received a diagnosis of optic disc edema. The MRI results indicated a flattened sclera in the posterior parts of both eyeballs, a small pituitary gland visible along the base of the turbinate, and a partially empty sella with the remaining portion filled with cerebrospinal fluid. Fortunately, no signs of brain damage or tumors were detected. Subsequently, a puncture was performed, yielding 12.5 inches of clear, colorless cerebrospinal fluid. Despite medical intervention, she experiences daily headaches ranging from mild to severe, primarily localized at the occiput and sides of her head. Additionally, she suffers from severe migraine-like episodes at least once a month, accompanied by eye flooding triggered by lowering her head, bathing, or waking up. Other associated symptoms include dizziness, ear pressure, and pain behind the eyes. Currently, she is prescribed 1000 mg of Acetazolamide, taken two days consecutively with a one-day break, initially starting at a dosage of 500 mg.

I have a few questions. First, is this condition considered a disease? Second, is a CSF level of 12.5 inches considered high? Third, can blindness or brain damage occur without treatment? Lastly, how does continuous intake of Acetazolamide differ from taking it with a one-day break?

Please suggest.