Hi all, after an MRI that showed lesions consistent with MS or, alternatively, clinically isolated syndrome - neurologist told me I could either wait 6 months and have another MRI to see any changes or a lumbar puncture. I went for the latter of the two, but does anyone have any advise / experience of what to expect during and after a lumbar puncture?
Thank you — Lauren
Hello. Hope you are feeling ok
So you lie on your side legs slightly pulled up and you lie very still. Whilst they use a needle and remove some fluid. I think the key thing is to drink lots. I was told to drink coke. Can’t remember why maybe the sugar an cafine so I took a small bottle of coke and a larger bottle of water and a straw as you in theory stay laying down afterwards for a while. I didn’t find it too bad. Then have a quiet 24 hrs. Good luck
Mine was absolutely fine - the anticipation was the only bad bit! I hope that yours goes well too.
I had more issues with the blood tests before and after than the lumbar puncture itself. They say to rest for 24 hours afterwards. They mean it! I didn’t and had a massive migraine. Although that may have been down to being told to drink espresso afterwards when I don’t normally drink caffeine.
Hi,
I wrote (in detail!) about my positive experience on here in another post: Search for “if you are waiting for a lumbar puncture, please read”.
It was really easy for me.
I felt so upbeat after it that, having no headache, I went for a run that afternoon… definitely don’t do that. Lie down as they recommend, when you get home.