What are the complications of a lumbar puncture?
The most common complication of a lumbar puncture is a headache, sometimes called a spinal headache. Spinal headaches occur most often in young women, but can affect anyone. Perhaps about 1 in 10 people will develop a headache following a spinal tap. To reduce the risk of a spinal headache you should lie down for 30-60 minutes after having an LP. You should also drink lots of fluids, including caffeinated beverages. If the headache persists, your doctor may need to give you intravenous caffeine or perform what is known as a blood patch.
