Re: A Lumbar Puncture?

[Guest guest]

>, I've had about 10 lumbar punctures, even though effective,

they can be painful. To me the fetal position is painful. But on my

knees with my hands above my head works better.

> Hi ,

>

> CSF· Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis (CSF) - The CSF is take from the

> body from a procedure known as a Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap).

> Because the behaviour of the immune system cells in the central

> nervous system may be different to elsewhere in the body the

> evaluation of the CSF is one of the best forms of diagnosing

> Neurosarcoidosis. Especially by looking for raised markers of ACE

in

> the spinal fluid. The spinal fluid is a closed system. The ACE or

> other markers that are affecting the brain seep out of the brains

> tissue when the levels are high and enter the spinal fluid. If the

> markers are present in your spinal fluid this indicates that there

is

> neurological involvement. It is also a good way of eliminating any

> other neurological diseases which may have similar symptoms to your

> own.

>

> The Lumbar Puncture procedure involves local anesethetic into your

> back and spinal region. A needle is then inserted into the spinal

> column and the fluid taken. I recommend you have this procedure

done

> under a fluroscope or CT scan so the Dr performing the procedure

can

> clearly see your spinal column, otherwise they are going in blind

and

> it may take several attempts or they might not be able to get the

> fluid at all. This procedure is best done in a hospital as you

> ideally should be monitored afterwards. The spinal fluid cushions

the

> brain and spinal column. When you remove some of the fluid, it

> affects you greatly. You are advised to drink plenty of water

before

> and especially after the procedure. Side effects from this

procedure

> include migraine and back ache, the level of intensity varies from

> person to person. You are advised to lye flat for at least 6 hours

> minimum after the Lumbar Puncture, and ideally remain flat for 2

days

> or there abouts. It takes around 5 days for the needle incision

into

> the spinal column to heal. The more you move around during the

first

> few days after your LP the longer you will have the migraines. I

> found this out the hard way!

>

> Love Aisha.

>