Final answer:
Intracranial hypertension is characterized by a sustained intracranial pressure above 20 mm Hg, and normal ICP values rest between 5 to 15 mm Hg.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intracranial hypertension is defined as a sustained increase in intracranial pressure (ICP) above 20 mm Hg. Normal ICP is generally considered to be between 5 to 15 mm Hg in a resting supine adult.
The pressure in the fluid surrounding the brain and filling the spinal column is crucial since it supplies flotation to the brain and maintains proper brain function.
A significant increase in this pressure can lead to various health complications, such as severe headaches, constricted blood flow, and even damage to brain structures.
Therefore, a sustained increase above 20 mm Hg would be categorized as intracranial hypertension and could require medical intervention.