Also known as csf rhinorrhea, this is a condition in which a fluid (called cerebrospinal fluid) escapes through a tear in the membrane surrounding the brain and leaks into a nasal passage. We provide expert guidance on recognizing cerebrospinal fluid leaks and when to seek medical attention. A spinal csf leak occurs anywhere in the spinal column
Woman's Runny Nose Turned Out to Be Brain-Fluid Leak
The most common symptom of a spinal csf leak is a headache
A cranial csf leak occurs in the skull, and often causes symptoms such as clear fluid leaking from the nose or ear
Some csf leaks may heal with bed rest and other conservative treatment. A csf leak can cause symptoms like a headache and a runny nose if it's near your brain, or neck stiffness and radiating pain if it's in your spine A typical runny nose will usually clear up with cold and allergy medications There are multiple other ways to tell a csf leak from a runny nose.
A leak that occurs at the cranial level, rather than the spine, doesn't result in the same drop in volume and pressure of fluid in the skull A cranial csf leak results in a runny nose and carries a high risk of meningitis, an inflammation of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord, which can be fatal and requires emergency attention. Laura thought it might be a cold, but it was actually a cerebrospinal fluid leak that could leave her open to serious infections. Discover the causes, symptoms, and treatments for cerebrospinal fluid leaks from the nose
Learn when to seek immediate medical attention for this condition.
A rare but serious condition, a runny nose could indicate cerebrospinal fluid (csf) leakage, a potential brain fluid leak This article explores the symptoms, causes, and critical medical attention required for this alarming health issue, offering vital insights into this unexpected neurological concern. Learn about csf leak nose symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options
