Epilepsy and the Spinal Tap
(continued)
When to Contact the Doctor After a Spinal Tap
After a spinal tap, call your local doctor immediately if:
- You notice any unusual drainage, including bloody discharge, at the puncture site
- You develop a fever
- Your headache persists
- Your pain symptoms worsen
After the Spinal Tap
You will be monitored for a few hours after a spinal tap procedure. At that time, the nurse will discuss post-procedure instructions with you. You will be provided with a written form of these instructions to follow at home.
The results of your spinal tap will be discussed with the doctor who ordered it within 24 hours.
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by
Jon Glass on June 16, 2012
© 2012 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.

