Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak

happens when there is a tear in the membrane (dura) that contains the fluid. CSF surrounds and cushions your brain and spinal cord.

Common signs and symptoms:

• A headache that gets better when you lie down
• Nausea and vomiting
• Neck pain or stiffness, dizziness
• Changes in your vision, hearing, and balance
• Clear drainage from your nose or ears
• Sweet or salty taste in your mouth
• Tingling, burning, or prickling feeling in your arms and fingers

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US), or have someone call if:

• You have a seizure.

Seek care immediately if:

• Your headaches become worse.
• You become confused.
• You have increased neck pain or stiffness.
• You have a fever.

Call your doctor if:

• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment

depends on the size and location of your leak.

• Conservative treatment helps decrease pressure and allows the leak to heal on its own. You will need to stay in bed with your head raised and avoid activities that cause pressure. These activities include coughing, vomiting, blowing your nose, and straining to have a bowel movement. Your provider may give you medicines to stop any coughing and vomiting. Your provider may also give you medicines to keep your bowel movements soft.
• A lumbar drain is a catheter placed into your lower back. The catheter will be attached to a drainage collector to drain your CSF. This lowers the pressure and helps the leak close.
• A blood patch may be done to close your CSF leak. Your provider will inject a sample of your own blood near the leak. The blood will clot and seal the leak.
• Surgery may be needed if no other treatments stop your CSF leak.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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