HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Is Dizziness And Lightheadedness Normal After Lumbar Puncture?

My daughter had a lumbar puncture done on Tuesday of this week. She is feeling very dizzy and light headed when she stands up. Is this normal? Is there anything she can do to help that feeling? She has had lumbar punctures before and sometimes has had to go in for a blood patch.
Mon, 23 Feb 2015
Report Abuse
Radiologist,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for writing in.

Lumbar puncture involves placement of a needle in the space around the spinal cord to draw CSF which is the fluid occupying the space around the brain and spinal cord. Sometimes there is sudden decrease in pressure of the fluid after the test and this can cause dizziness and light headedness for a while. In most patients, this starts decreasing from the day following the lumbar puncture but in a few, the dizziness can last for a week to a month. This is especially felt when the patient stands up and there is change in position.

Taking fluids and caffeine beverages can help many patients get back to normal. She needs to change from sitting to standing position slowly to avoid sudden change in posture.
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
Is Dizziness And Lightheadedness Normal After Lumbar Puncture?

Hi, Thanks for writing in. Lumbar puncture involves placement of a needle in the space around the spinal cord to draw CSF which is the fluid occupying the space around the brain and spinal cord. Sometimes there is sudden decrease in pressure of the fluid after the test and this can cause dizziness and light headedness for a while. In most patients, this starts decreasing from the day following the lumbar puncture but in a few, the dizziness can last for a week to a month. This is especially felt when the patient stands up and there is change in position. Taking fluids and caffeine beverages can help many patients get back to normal. She needs to change from sitting to standing position slowly to avoid sudden change in posture.