What are the risks of an intrathecal?
While not common, complications can occur, even though you are monitored carefully and your anesthetists take special precautions to avoid them. Fluids will be given through an IV before the intrathecal is given and while the medications are in effect. This helps keep your blood pressure stable. Shivering is a common reaction. Mild soreness or aching for several days at the site of the injection is also normal. Although uncommon, a headache may develop following the procedure. You can help decrease the likelihood of a headache by holding as still as possible when the injection is given. The headache, sometimes lasting a few days, often can be reduced or eliminated by lying flat, drinking fluids and taking pain tablets. Sometimes when you get a headache it will not go away with the usual treatments. When this happens, the anesthetist will draw some blood from your arm and inject it into your back. This seals the area where the epidural was given and stops your headache. This is called a
