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What Causes Headache And Dizziness Post A Lumbar Puncture Procedure?

Posted on Thu, 29 Sep 2016

Question: My daughter had a lumbar puncture done this last Sunday, Aug 28th at United Regional ER, XXXXXXX Falls due to severe vomitting and massive migraine headaches. Afterwards, on Monday, she had horrific migraines and could not see light, sit up or stand without excruitating pain. Therefore, her family practictioner sent her to ER to have a neurologist perform an epidural blood patch. The migraines are gone but she is unable to sit more than 15 minutes, without extreme back pain where the punctures took place. She is in tears. Her physicians think that she should do an MRI but my daughter feels if pain meds were prescribed, this situation could be alleviated. What do you suggest that my daughter do in this situation?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Ibuprofen can be used first.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

Headaches and dizziness after lumbar puncture are related to decreased intracranial pressure and epidural blood patch is the main treatment way in this case.

Besides this, bed rest, staying good hydrated are also necessary.

Your daughter may use first over the counter pain meds such ibuprofen for few days, in order to improve back pain.

If Ibuprofen fails to improve the pain, you should discuss with your daughter's Doctor about prescribing stronger painkillers such as Opiates etc.

MRI will show if there is meningocele or not (a rare complication after lumbar puncture that may require surgery).

Hope you found the answer helpful.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Arnab Banerjee