Lumbar puncture?

I am just wondering for those of you who have had a lumbar puncture before what was it like? I realize its not great to diagnose lyme but my neurologist wants to do one to check for other things.

Was it awful? Did you get the bad headache? Any other info would be appreciated!

Jackie Hi, I have had 2 spinal taps and nothing with either they numb it. I was scared but stutterbug is right. I had no headches nothing the first was done by a neruo Dr about 8 to 10 yrs ago and it was done under xray and was numbed. The second was done in april
of this last yr in the hospital when I had a mini stroke caused by the lyme but not under x-ray. again no headaches no pain. and I'm a big baby.


so if I say it didn't hurt me it didn't. I will tell you it showed lyme in my spinal fluid. which the hospital didn't tell me. But the Dr got the results and he saw it right away. and told me. I hope it goes well for you I'll say a prayer for you.

mainegirl/marlene

Hi Jackie,

I had a lumbar puncture this past January and the procedure was not painful. I didn't get the expected headache, but did have some pain in my forearms and had a stiff neck. If you experience any discomfort afterwords get flat on your back, it seems to relieve any discomfort.

Good luck with your procedure. Please let us know how you make out.

Gary

I did have one done last year while I was severely ill and had a very bad "lp headache". I don't know how much of it was caused by the lumbar puncture but I was bed ridden for 3 months and could only have my head up for no longer than 20 mins then needed to lay down again because of the immense pressure.

If you have one make sure that you do not stand up or sit up directly after - I did sit up for approx 3 mins before I asked if I should be laying down.
They say to keep lying down for as long as possible so make sure you don't need to use the bathroom and drink lots of fluids.

good luck.