Lumbar puncture

[Jw534]

Ok I would like some advice. I got a lumbar puncture on Monday. They had to do it twice because they couldn't get fluid from the first site. I had some back pain but then Tuesday morning it started with the headache. I went to the ER yesterday and they gave me fluids and had me drink a lg coffee.

They discussed a blood patch but the anesthesiologist couldn't do it for a few hrs and we were getting a bad storm. They sent me home with pain meds and told me to go back today if I still had a headache. Well ...big surprise I have a headache. My question is should I just tough it out or return for the patch? I really don't want to go through another invasive procedure.

Btw I am in limbo and my body I'd revolting through this ordeal. Thanks so much for your input!

[zoefromsussex]

Hi, this is a late response as I haven't logged in for ages but I hope your headache has now gone? I had the lp headache too and found it excruciating to be honest. I personally didn't get a blood patch but I must admit the pain & other weird stuff such as noise distortion and a buzzing ear etc lasted over a week. It was awful!

[Deb61]

I had a very bad headache for two to three weeks when I tried to tough it out.   By that time I was hysterical with pain (and I feel I have a high tolerance for pain).  I would get the blood patch.

[PeninaD]

Get the blood patch !  It was amazing how quickly my daughter had relief from it.

[immisceo]

For whatever reason, my hospital is extremely conservative about administering blood patches. I was told they existed, but that they're very hesitant to use them. I didn't get one and toughed it out for a few days. Stayed horizontal and developed a nice caffeine addiction, but was ultimately no worse for wear.

(Just offering another perspective. Obviously, do what's best for yourself. So sorry you're experiencing complications.)

[HVAC]

I would get the blood patch. They would not do one for me and it took three weeks to get rid of the headache.

Alex

[essdipity]

Get the blood patch. You'll feel much better almost immediately. Good luck.

ess