Can CSF leak symptoms come and go?
Patients who have had a CSF leak have described the fluid as having a salty or metallic taste. Dr. Frank P.K. Hsu, chair of the department of neurological surgery at UC Irvine Health, said that the fluid may also “come and go.”
How do you know if you are leaking brain fluid?
What are the symptoms of a cerebrospinal fluid leak?
- Positional headaches, which feel worse when sitting upright and better when lying down; caused by intracranial hypotension.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Neck pain or stiffness.
- Change in hearing (muffled, ringing in the ears)
- Sense of imbalance.
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
Why does CSF leak happen?
A CSF leak results from a hole or tear in the dura, the outermost layer of the meninges. Causes of the hole or tear can include head injury and brain or sinus surgery. CSF leaks may also occur after lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap or spinal anesthesia. Spontaneous CSF leaks can also occur for no known reason.
How long does a CSF leak take to heal?
The repair site can take four to six weeks to heal completely. During that time, the patient’s activity will be restricted to avoid straining, heavy lifting (no greater than 10 pounds), and nose blowing.
How serious is CSF leak?
The fluid may then leak from the nose or ears or into other parts of the body. Also, CFS in the spine can leak into muscles and connective tissue surrounding the spinal column. A CSF leak is a serious issue that can cause complications such as headaches, meningitis, and seizures.
How do you sleep with a CSF leak?
How do I care for myself while I have a CSF leak?
- Stay in bed with your head raised on pillows.
- Do not blow your nose.
- Avoid coughing.
- Avoid vomiting.
- Avoid straining when you have a bowel movement.
Can a CSF leak cause death?
Background. Post-traumatic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is one of the most troublesome conditions associated with head trauma. CSF fistulae, meningitis/central nervous infection, or even death may accompany it.