What does increased ICP stand for in a medical context?

Increased ICP stands for intracranial pressure, which refers to the pressure within the skull that affects the brain and its functioning. Understanding increased intracranial pressure is crucial in wilderness medicine, as it can indicate serious medical conditions such as traumatic brain injury, tumors, or infections like meningitis.

Intracranial pressure is a key indicator of brain health and can affect blood flow, oxygen delivery, and overall cranial function. When the pressure rises too high, it can lead to significant complications, including decreased cerebral perfusion, brain herniation, and potential death. Identifying and managing increased ICP is vital, especially when dealing with head injuries in a wilderness context where immediate medical assistance may be limited.