Should i get it checked?

[tiansoph]

I gave birth to my Dtr 7yrs ago. I got the epidural and everything seemed fine, still have some numbness in my right thigh. With in the year after giving birth i developed migraines, since then i have been on almost every preventative meds and have tried in-pt hsp DHE .. nothing seems to help. In anycase, before this i never had migraines, now i have about 19 a month.  I am still working on getting them under control with my headache Dr.
I have also since giving birth noticed i get a drainage from my nose.  It is a clear water that comes out quickly when i bend over and or move my head too quickly.  My doctor has given me viles to catch this in to get it tested but when it comes it is difficult to collect, and does not happen all the time.  My question is:  Could this be a result of the epidural and could this be causing or the initial cause of my migraines?  I have been reading on how there can be a puncture, and thought this might be something.  Also, how can i get this checked out? Does this require a MRI with contrast of my spine?   I have had MRI and CT of head before but never mentioned this particular problem.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
Spontaneous CSF leaks from the nose are somewhat uncommon. We should also consider other fluids than CSF that can leak out of the nose. One differential include "Pseudo-CSF rhinorhea" which can occur as a result of injury to the sphenopalatine ganglion. CSF fluid depletion may present with headaches, which are more severe in the upright position, horizontal diplopia, change in hearing, tinnitus, blurring of vision, facial numbness, nausea, and upper limb tingling. However, these symptoms are nonspecific.  Further evaluation such as MRI of head or spine MRI may be done. Discuss this with your doctor. Take care and do keep us posted.
    

[tiansoph]

Hi, thanks for your reply.  The MRI and CT scan came out fine.  As i stated i am working on my migraines with my Dr. and have been for the past seven years. As far as the drainage it is very difficult to collect.  

I am not sure my question was answered though ... i am wondering if there is any link between my nasal drainage and possible puncture from my epidural and any link between those and my migraines? Also, how would i check to see if in fact there is a puncture in my spine?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? How was the result of the MRI and CT scan? Collecting the nasal discharge is important to determine the source and presence of organism. Identifying the possible triggers are important also in preventing them. If there is none, you could also try complementary and alternative medicine such as biofeedback therapy and other relaxation techniques. Check with your doctor for proper evaluation. Take care and do keep us posted.