So I have the dreaded lumber puncture this Friday and to be honest I'm scared. How bad is it and is there anything I can do to prevent the headache afterwards?? X
The doctors had me lay flat in a recovery room for 1 hour immediately following the procedure, and then I was sent home with specific instructions that except for trips to the bathroom to remain on my back in bed until a full 24 hours from the original time of the actual procedure had passed. I followed those instructions and never had a headache or any other problems.
I didn't sleep for 3 weeks because of fear and anxiety about the procedure. Had it done in a hospital by a specialist and it turned out to be a total NOTHING. The only thing that I ever felt was a tiny shot to numb the area. I had seen too many episodes of the TV show House over the years. Just stay down for the 24 hours as recommended and you will be fine.
1st word of advice
Don't Google the procedure
Mine was pretty smooth
I had the stand up kind where you're kind of standing leaning
And there's a monitor so the Dr could see where he was going
We had a great conversation regarding travel
Not a bad experience at all
But after you must lay flat for a couple hours
Then when u get home too as long as possible
I still got a bad headache but it was 2 days later and then I just took Tylenol
Good luck !
Remember don't Google it
As others have said, the procedure isn't that bad. When my neuro & I discussed my having the procedure, I asked about risks. He told me there is a risk, although small, that the puncture may not seal, causing severe pain at the top of the spine & back of the head. Went for my procedure, which was fine. Went home & stayed in bed for 2 days to rest up. Day 3, I left the house & ran errands-no issues. Day 4, I had excruciating pain in the back of my head. It would go away immediately if I laid down on my back. Went in for a blood patch on day 5, and I was good after that. Good luck!
No problem. First, my neuro performed the procedure. Second, he had my spinal MRI up on the screen so he knew exactly where to stick me, Third, he gave me Xanax to take the night b4 and an hour b4 procedure. I had a driver. I went home after and slept the rest of the day. Good luck.