Lumbar Puncture

[dani43946]

I am new on here and posted the other day. Well, I called the surgeon and told him about my symptoms three weeks post op. He wants me to drive to Pittsburgh for a Cat Scan and a lumbar puncture. He says that it is common, especially in young women to develop this pressure after the surgery.
So I am headed to Pittsburgh. Please pray for me. I will keep everyone updated.
Thanks so much,
Dani

[*Stormy*]

I'm wondering if caffeine is used more to help deal with the symptoms of a leak so that the leak can heal itself rather than actually having a hand in the mending? You know, like how caffeine helps headache pain by dilating blood vessels? If that's the case it should def help the headaches from the LP.

Just a thought :)
Carolyn

[selmaS]

HI...deff, if flat causes the issue, try what ever helps, but minimize ur activity to see if that helps.
I am not exactly sure how it works, but it is on the list of things to try by many drs b4 a blood patch is done or a surgery to close off a leak.

I do not  think u have a leak, but, the rest and fluids can only help.

No worries

"selma"

[dani43946]

For some reason lying flat drives me crazy (can I lay on my side with a pillow?)
And that is usually when all the fluid builds up back there. In the mornings after I have been asleep. Could the fluid build up b causing any of my pain?
And caffeine? How does that help?
Thank you so so much for helping me out during this really hard time!
((HUGS))
DANI

[selmaS]

HI...I can make a suggestion that may help...since u have a small build up of fluid, try lying flat for a few days...drink plenty of water and some caffeinated items as well....this should help if u have a small leak or just help it all balance out.

It is worth a shot : )

Hope u have a better day today
"selma"

[dani43946]

So I went and had the spinal done. I have a really good pain tolerance, but oh my. On a normal person, it would have been a little uncomfortable. But leave it to me to be "weird" and they had difficulty doing it. I kept hearing the drs' big sighs and their frustration. Im the one getting jabbed in the back and sitting there apologizing for them having such a hard time. How strange is that???
Anyway, the two hour drive up to Pittsburgh, the spinal, and the two hour drive back....Im not sure it was worth it. My headache was gone for a few hours. And then yesterday I layed in bed all day and all last night with the worst pressure headaches. But I woke up this morning and felt pretty good. Yea...
Oh...my CT Scan showed thay everything looked good. I had a little bit of fluid built up around my incision area, but not enough for him to be concerned about. He says it is all normal and will go away in time.
Awww...here is to a good day :0)

[selmaS]

Sending prayers for u Dani... and for ur drs as well to give u the best care possible.

"selma"

[jvilletina2]

I had 2 lumbar punctures post op. They are not are painful as they sound. Uncomfortable and scary yes, but the nurses all know you're nervous.
I had to lay flat on my back for 24 hours after the 2nd one because of spinal fluid pressure etc. Apparently you can get the worst headache of your life if you move about too soon.
Check with drs. on what they recommend for you.
I was unable to pee laying down so I had to have another catheter.
Good luck. There are lots of people thinking and praying for you.
Keep us posted.
Tina

[nmj1973]

Dani,
I am new on here too, I am having surgery next Tuesday, so I am still learning about all of this, but I will be keeping you in my prayers as you travel and that the Dr will be able to help you.
God Bless,
Nicole