How to get rid of a spinal headache?
About 3 or 4 days ago I had a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) done at the hospital in hope for a diagnosis on whether or not I have multiple sclerosis. I did get told go lie down for about an hour after and then was told to leave. The rest of the day I did as I pleased and hung out with friends and I wasn't sore at all. The day after my back was achy but that was ok and then the day after that I got a really bad headahe all of a sudden and have been getting it off and on ever since. I think I've noticed that it gets really bad when I sit up, and is okay when I stand up but fully gone the second I lie down. I'm only fifteen and have my year 11, TEE English exam tomorrow. Yeah it's important and I'm going to be sitting for 3 hours and racking my brain for answers. I don't think it will go down well, what can I do? Is there anyway to fix it, I don't think neurofen is working. Or should I just call up and request to do it next week if possible? Idk if they will let me though. I can't even study cos it hurts so much. Any advice would be wonderful :)
Public Comments
1. I recommend that you have hot compresses on your back ! It will relieve pain and soothe you.Secondly,
Go to the nearest pharmacist and telll him this issue and ask him/her that , whether MILD MUSCLE RELAXANT lotion/cream would be effective or NOT.
I think , hot compresses with muscle relaxant lotion would serve the best.
(in L.Punture , i think so there's some moderate degree of injury to ligaments that will heal in sometime)
2. Call the doctor and ask for advice or a prescription for pain relievers. This type of headache is common after any procedure that touches cerebrospinal fluid and can be severe, and it may take a while to go away. Also, drink plenty of water.
If symptoms get worse, or you develop a fever, a stiff neck (unable to touch your chin to your chest), or neurological symptoms (confusion, sleepiness for no reason, vision disturbances, etc.), you'll need to see a doctor right away, as these could be signs of infection, such as meningitis (which must be treated very promptly).
3. I am surprised you were told to just lie down for an hour.
You will need to call your doctor or neurologist, the fastest way to cure this is to go to the hospital and get a spinal tap blood patch or lie flat on your back, keep hydrated (often with an IV drop) and wait for it to pass.
Also speak to your parents and teachers about your exam. You shouldn't be taking it with a spinal tap headache.
All the best to you.
