I'm having vision problems and chronic headaches/migraines. can you explain the lumbar puncture and what they're looking for with it?

Inflammation: Migraines can cause headache and visual disturbance. However, this can sometimes be difficult to distinguish from similar symptoms that occur in conditions such as encephalitis. Also, a condition called idiopathic intracranial hypertension can cause headaches and visual changes. The lumbar puncture can see if there is evidence of inflammation or increased pressure. If not, probably migraine.

CSF : A lumbar puncture provides vital information by measuring two components: 1. The opening pressure which helps to determine if you have abnormally elevated intracranial pressure and 2.Laboratory data to check for the possibility if chronic inflammatory process (or chronic infections). In some circumstances it is used to check for hemorrhage when it is suspected but not seen on a a ct scan or mri.

Rule out Meningitis: Most common reason to do lumbar puncture is to make sure you do not have meningitis or other kind of viral or bacterial infections. Also to rule out other inflammatory causes of headaches. Its highly recommended that after a lumbar puncture you stay in bed flat for 24 hours, and get well hydrated, otherwise you may have much worse headaches.