How to Avoid a Headache Following Myelogram

A myelogram is a medical test used to evaluate the condition of the spinal cord and the spinal column. This imaging exam is performed by injecting a contrast material into the subarachnoid space around the spinal cord and examining that area using a fluoroscope. A fluoroscope is a real-time X-ray machine that allows you to see the organs of the body in motion rather than in static images. A severe headache is a common side effect following a myelogram and can persist for several weeks without treatment. If you are worried about getting a headache after your procedure, there are some steps you can take to avoid it.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter analgesics
• Caffeine

Instructions

1. Tell the doctor performing the myelogram if you have a history of headaches. Patients who get headaches on a regular basis or suffer from migraines have a significantly increased risk of developing a headache following a myelogram. The doctor can take additional precautions to help you avoid getting a post-procedure headache.

2. Stay on bed rest in the recovery room for 4 to 8 hours following the procedure. It's recommended that you do not get up or move around during this period, even to go to the bathroom.

3. Keep your head elevated at a 30- to 45-degree angle while resting in recovery.

4. Avoid any strenuous activity for 48 hours. This includes bending over.

5. Take on a lot of fluids to help rid your body of the contrast material. A headache following a myelogram is thought to be caused by the change to the cerebrospinal fluid pressure from the contrast material, not from an allergic reaction to the material itself. Forced fluids help the body eliminate the contrast material.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are a smoker, you should stop smoking at least 24 hours before your myelogram to help avoid getting a post-procedural headache.

• If you develop a persistent, severe headache after a myelogram that isn't meningitis and doesn't respond to analgesics, talk to your doctor about getting a blood patch. A blood patch is an injection of a small amount of your own blood into the epidural space in your spine. This usually stops these headache almost immediately.

• Caffeine pills or the caffeine in coffee can help prevent a headache.

• If you do develop a headache despite your attempts to avoid one, over-the-counter analgesics like acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin are usually recommended to treat the pain. Some doctors will give you over-the-counter-strength analgesics prophylactically, as well.

• If a headache persists for longer than 24 hours or is accompanied by fever over 100.4 degrees F or a stiff neck, contact your doctor immediately. You could have early signs of meningitis.