Spinal Tap

[MommyofNatTyZach]

Hi Everyone,

Sorry it has taken me so long to get on. I was doing pretty well and started a new job, but then started having symptoms again. I am having a spinal tap on Wednesday. Does anyone know how long it takes to recover? I heard you can feel really bad afterward for a couple of days. I am taking Wed. of off work, but I didn't know if I should take Thursday too.

[spitfire2]

Forgot to say, the whole ordeal for me lasted about 4 days or so, so get that extra time if possible!

[spitfire2]

I'm not a doc, but I would definitely take Thursday off.  Friday too would be ideal, but I don't know if it's possible for you (although I would highly stress trying to get that day off too.)  You just want to let the puncture heal up, and it's best to lie down for a few days.  If you try to move around, and you have a spinal leak, it can be hell, vomiting, nausea, extreme pain due to leak.  Try and get the extra day, if you can. Just need to let it heal.

i had a spinal tap, and the puncture would not heal up, so they did a spinal patch.  Before the patch was done, I was in an absolute hell, I kept vomiting, could not hold anything down, and ran out of fluid, so I was taken to the ER.  I had such excruciating pain I was not even sure where I was.  I was finally helped by the patch and some IV pain meds in the hospital.  The patch took about 6 hours to "kick in" but it made a world of difference.  Bottom line, try to take off Thursday and friday too, and take it easy for a few days!  Good luck!!

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
The test (spinal tap or lumbar puncture) itself does not feel bad. The pain due to needle piercing is minimized by local anesthesia. However, you need to take easy and avoid lifting or pushing any weight for 2-3 days. Also, you will need to drink more fluids in first 24 hours and lie either on your back or on your stomach. You will have to avoid lying down on your side for the first 24 hours. People usually return to work after a day or two, but some may take longer.  Please discuss with your doctor. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.