Spinal Headache
A spinal headache, also known as a post-dural puncture headache, occurs when there is a leak of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) following a procedure like a spinal tap or epidural injection. This leak can lead to a decrease in CSF pressure, resulting in a headache that is typically worse when sitting or standing and improves when lying down.
Symptoms of a spinal headache may include a dull, throbbing pain, neck stiffness, and sensitivity to light or sound. Treatment often involves rest, hydration, and sometimes a blood patch, which involves injecting a small amount of the patient’s blood into the epidural space to seal the leak.