Unfortunately the only option for treating a blocked shunt is surgery. I know it is a nuisance, and no one really "likes" it, but it is a necessity if you want a chance to live ! It is definitely possible to die from blocked shunt, as I nearly did 8 years ago. I actually went into a coma before I was taken to the operating theatre (I was already in the hospital's emergency dept).

I know it is difficult - I have had two surgeries within 8 months, and two surgeries within 11 months on two different occasions, having had 6 replacements in all. I have now had my current shunt just over 7 years !

It is a matter of just plugging on, and eventually things will settle down.

Good luck!

Nat.