Anyone ever have a lumbar puncture (ie. spinal tap) before?

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Today I was told that I need to get one done sometime in the near future. The doctor told me not to worry because "they're not as bad as they sound," but I'm still nervous about it. So, I'd be curious to hear about your experience, if you've ever had one yourself.

Had one in an emergency once, but was unconscious at the time, so not very helpful! As I understand it, non-emergency ones are under local anaesthesia, so shouldn't be too bad!

All I would warn you of is that I had a really bad headache afterwards, that got much worse when I sat up, but after a day or two, that cleared up!

Reply/drop me a message if you need to know anything else!

I've heard that they can be very uncomfortable, but they are not dangerous, doctors just stick a needle in your back and take a few drops of spinal fluid. Also, you should lay still for an hour after it is done, or a massive headache could follow.

Thanks, that is helpful. The doc had mentioned headaches were common afterwards, but I didn't realize they could last for that long. I guess I had better try to schedule it for a Friday, in case I don't feel up to going to work the next day.

I had one years ago. The procedure wasn't all that bad. The worst part for me was the anesthetic injections. They stung like heck. Once past that point it was really no big deal. I laid on my back for 3 hours after and don't remember getting a headache.

I got it done this past Thursday had a different anesthesia problem myself. My neuro started the procedure before the anesthesia was fully working, so it wasn't a really fun experience.

I had some complications and have been on bed rest the last few days, but am starting to get up and about again. Not really a fun way for me to have to spend my birthday, but it is what it is, I guess. Hopefully I'll get the results back soon and the news won't be too bad ...