Starting to get bad headache after steroid injection yesterday. Is this normal?

[Cindylou]

Hi guys,

I had my cervical steroid injection yesterday morning (around C7-T1) and I am really starting to get a pretty massive headache this morning. I have never had this kind of reaction before. Is this normal? I took a couple of aleve, but it doesn't seem to be slowing it down. My head kind of feels like it is going to explode. Maybe I should call the doctor's office?? I was fairly active yesterday, instead of taking it easy. Oh, brother. Maybe I am paying big time. I have an appt. this morning unrelated to health issues, but I'm thinking I probably need to reschedule it, the way I'm feeling right now. Anyone know how long this lasts, or again, is this a possible side effect?

thx,

Cindylou

[runner]

IMHO,

CyndyLou, you may have a CSF leak which is causing your headache.
It is kind of what happens when people have myleograms and get a blazing headache.
Call your doctor and tell him/her about your headache.
You know if you do have a leak, you can get a bloodpatch from your doctor to seal the leak.
So CALL THE DOC, and don't suffer needlessly.
Usually, a leak can happen when the dura (covering) of the spinal cord is nicked.
It should improve when you lay down if that is what you have. Check your post injection instructions because mine for my epidurals had the info about what to do if I developed a headache.

Keep well,

Runner

[Cindylou]

Thanks runner. I did call doc's office and talked to a nurse. She didn't think it was a spinal tap headache. How would she know?? But she just told me to take something stronger than the aleve and to lay down. I did take 2 Vicodin, but am not getting the relief I had hoped for. I've put ice around my head and neck which at least distracts me from the headache. Maybe I'll try a muscle relaxant. See if that does anything. Will keep you posted.

Thanks,

Cindylou

[dshobbies]

CL,

CALL AGAIN!!!!! Why should you suffer for days because of what the nurse thinks. Tell her 2 Vs didn't work, even with the ice. I have a few more ideas of what you should say but I'll let your imagination take it from here.

This makes me very angry. We go to the doctor to alleviate our pain and suffering only to have them make it worse because due dilligence wasn't observed. Shame on them. (OK, that I can print)

[Maria]

If this headache continues to feel worse and you are getting nauseated and/or cannot stand, sit or be upright or have your head in a non elevated position and no meds you take are helping to alleviate the headache get yourself to an Emergency room if you cannot get to speak with the doctor.

[Justin]

CindyLou,

I do hope you feel better. I would try to contact the office again, as your symptoms should be discussed with a physician in the clinic.

Please keep us posted CL.

Originally Posted by dshobbies

CL,

CALL AGAIN!!!!! Why should you suffer for days because of what the nurse thinks. Tell her 2 Vs didn't work, even with the ice. I have a few more ideas of what you should say but I'll let your imagination take it from here.

This makes me very angry. We go to the doctor to alleviate our pain and suffering only to have them make it worse because due dilligence wasn't observed. Shame on them. (OK, that I can print)

Dale, I understand your anger and frequent posts about how medicine fails people or has not followed its "first, do no harm" mantra. I had a well-thought out reply typed out, but nevermind...I hope you are well.

[Cindylou]

Uh-huh, ok, I'll call again. I'm afraid they will just tell me to get to an ER, and I don't think I can drive right now. Is there anything else I need to be concerned about medically?

thx