

What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?.What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?.Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?.Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, including: Are there brochures or other printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?ĭon't hesitate to ask other questions.Are there restrictions I need to follow?.Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?.What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?.Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you receive.įor CSF leaks, questions to ask your doctor include: All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including dosesīring with you to the appointment recent test results and scans of your brain and spine.Key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.Your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for which you scheduled the appointment, and when they began.Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic Clinical trialsĮxplore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.Īfter discussing your symptoms with your family doctor, he or she might refer you to a doctor trained in brain and spine conditions (neurologist, neurosurgeon, ENT) for further evaluation.

Most spontaneous cranial CSF leaks require surgery.
#Cfs leak Patch#
The blood cells form a clot, which creates a patch to cover the area where the CSF is leaking. This treatment involves taking a sample of your own blood, then injecting it into the spinal canal. Treatments for spinal CSF leaks may include: Some CSF leaks improve with bed rest alone.

These images track the flow of CSF, which will be abnormal if there is an active spinal CSF leak. Then, images of the area are taken several times within a 24-hour period.

This test involves measuring the CSF pressure and then injecting a chemical into the space surrounding the spinal cord. This imaging test uses a contrast agent, gadolinium, to better highlight abnormalities in the brain or spine that result from a CSF leak. Tests to diagnose a spinal CSF leak may include: The flexibility of your joints also may be checked. Your doctor will likely start with your medical history and a physical exam.
