Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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Is this a spinal headache?

rn66g
rn66g
So I had my spinal tap on Thursday afternoon and it was smooth sailing for about the first 24 hours. I had a mild headache but that's nothing unusual for me lately. Then, about 24 hours after my LP, things started going downhill. I started getting a headache that wouldn't go away with Motrin. I was nothing unbearable, but annoying nonetheless. I took a nap and felt better for the first hour or so after I got up and then the headache came back. This morning I woke up with a mild headache an throughout the day, I've noticed something really strange. Usually a spinal headache gets bad as soon as you sit up and goes away as soon as you lay down. Today I've noticed that the headache isn't bad when I am laying down or when I am standing up, but my head feels like it's going to explode when I sit down. This doesn't make any sense. It got so bad that I became really nauseated at dinner and almost lost the few bites I was able to eat before I started to feel really bad. I don't know what to make of this since it is not typical of any spinal headache I've ever seen. All I can say is that if this hasn't improved by tomorrow I think I'm headed into the ER. Can anyone relate to this? Any advice?
AusSue
AusSue
I would get it checked out as the spinal tap can effect different people with different kinds of headaches. I had one where couldnt eat or drink for days so went into hospital & had a ddrip & it worked.
If in doubt go to the hospital
tiredbunni
tiredbunni
Have your tried drinking cola with caffeine? I had a bad spinal headache for 7 days. I was told to drink caffeine. I had quiet all caffeine for two years wasn't too crazy starting back. I saw in my doctors notes they were ready to do a blood patch. The caffeine cola drinks did work... just took time.

My headache actually hurt in my neck and lower part of head when sitting and I couldn't stand it. Laying down I did get relief. But if you don't get any relief, I would go to the hospital and get a blood patch or whatever they recommend.
deleted_user
deleted_user
My spinal was horrible no matter what elevation my head was in. I pounded caffeine and toughed it out for 3 days, and that is NOT something I recommend to anyone. My headache was debilitating...I was unable to lie down for 3 days with a baby in the house. If I had to do it over again, I'd go to urgent care and scream bloody murder for a blood patch. I hope it gets better and good luck! XOXOXO
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