lumbar puncture

[ruthbalbirnie]

got my appointment next Monday...I know I have through far worse but I am scared witless..it will be ok!

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Hi Ruth, not sure if you are just sharing, chatting, would like some support of the hug variety, or some advice, all available on this wonderful forum.

Perhaps you would like to tell us a bit more?

Have you had one before? Do you know what to expect? xx

[ruthbalbirnie]

thanks Tigerfeet...had one years ago and it was awful I had meningitis at the time so was in extreme pain...have really no idea what to expect and the letter from hospital doesn't say..am ringing them later to clarify..

I was really just venting but the support and hope provided by this forum is more than wonderful and a real life saver.

thanks again xx

[MrsR_75]

Hi there

Me too. Ive been told now that I will have one immediately before I have a spinal block for my c-section in January 2013. Two birds with one stone is the view!!

I'm a bit apprehensive too as I've never had a lumbar puncture.

Good luck with yours.

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I've had a few, with and without meningitis and the experiences were quite different. I was just going to mention some stuff that has helped me in case anyone not had one before or didn't know what to expect.

Talking beforehand to the person who is actually going to do it can help, rather than get prepared, get onto the bed then (and it does happen) not even see the face of the person who does it because they are behind you. Having a quick chat beforehand can be reassuring and gives you a chance to ask any last minute questions and express any concerns. There are different positions, techniques and after care procedures and it can be useful to be prepared. This is something you will probably have to request in advance.

For example, you could lay on your side, stomach (non pregnant) or sit up and lean forwards. Some hospitals like you to lay flat for x amount of time afterwards, gradually raising your head and drinking plenty meanwhile, so good idea to thoroughly empty your bladder. I've even taken to having a straw with me just in case because it's hard to 'drink plenty' when laying on your back! Other hospitals are happy for you to get up and move about.

It can be helpful to decide whether you want them to talk you through what they are doing as they do it, or maybe you are the type who prefers not to know! Little things, but they can mean a lot and make a big difference to your experience.

If you are having an x ray guided LP it will take a bit longer than a non-x ray LP.

There's lots more I could tell you but LP's vary from patient to patient, doctor to doctor, and our experiences will not all be the same, so I do encourage anyone having their first, or who is nervous, to have a chat with the medical team beforehand.