Chronic spinal headache

I had a baby just over 4 months ago.  I had a spinal fluid leak post epidural resulting in spinal headaches and bilateral subdural hematomas (small).  My MRI also showed increased enhancement of the dura.  I have since had an increase in migranes (migraines) but I also continue to experience spinal headaches that are very different than a migrane (migraine).  I have had 5 blood patches and my last CT was normal.  How common is a chronic CSF leak and what can be done for my pain?  These spical headaches last for up to 5 days at a time and I am supposed to return to work in 2 weeks.  I am very frustrated and I am not sure what to do.

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you for your question. Although without being able to examine you I can not offer you the specific advice on diagnosis and treatment that you need, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about your health concern.

This kind of CSF leak and subsequent spinal headache after epidural are not common in general practices and may last for 24 hours or resolves without any treatment if occurs. But spinal headache chances are more in women and people with previous headache (migraine) history. Persistent headache could be a worrying concern and needs a complete evaluation with the neurologist. Doctor may suggest intravenous caffeine, epidural blood patch & epidural saline to provide you some relief from spinal headache. Another possibility could be worsening of Migraine symptoms due to stress, anxiety or surgical procedure. Avoidance of triggering factors would be helpful in fast recovery. Hope this information proves helpful. Take Care & Regards.