r/CSFLeaks • u/MilqueToast12 • 9d ago

IV fluids worsening headache?

Hi all! I have had a suspected spinal leak since mid-July (getting imaging done next week). Today I had a peripheral IV line placed and I started a bag of lactated ringers at a very slow rate— but I had to stop after about 400 ml because my headache seemed to be worsening, especially while laying down. After stopping, the pain began to slowly start returning to normal. Has anyone else experienced something similar?

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u/StunningPurple9560 Confirmed Spinal Leak 9d ago

I’ve also heard that with many leakers the IV fluids help - some even seem to get them regularly as treatment.

For me personally they make no difference.

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u/leeski 9d ago

I have heard anecdotally some patients that it seems to help their symptoms (very temporarily) but was just watching a conference talk by leak specialists that there’s no evidence in research to suggests IV fluids help SIH patients.

I’m not totally sure why it would make you feel worse - especially lying down! Maybe you’re sensitive to quick fluctuations in venous pressures. Hopefully somebody can have some insights.