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A 45-year-old female asked:

I had a lumbar puncture on dec 21,2021. severe headaches and neck pain. 1 blood patch done and after 1 day all symptoms returned. pending 2nd patch tomorrow. its been a week today since lp will this ever go away? and how long after bp do i rest?

2 doctor answers4 doctors weighed in
Dr. Hunter Handsfield
Infectious Disease 55 years experience
Yes, it will go away, probably after the second blood patch. In the meantime, try not to worry: headache after LP is painful and disturbing, but not harmful. It's not possible to say more on a forum like this; every case is different. Keep working witih your doctors. Good luck.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Bennett Machanic
Neurology 54 years experience
Even if no blood patch is performed, a typical post-lumbar puncture headache will remit by 6-8 weeks. Have seen more rapid reversal with 1-3 blood patches, but usually one suffices. Would definitely stay supine as much as possible, and definitely increase hydration. This is NOT permanent.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Last updated Dec 30, 2021

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