What is a spinal headache?

Spinal headaches are a type of headache that occurs when the pressure in the skull becomes low, usually from a loss of the spinal fluid that surrounds the brain and the nerves in the spine. The headache that results from a loss of spinal fluid is unique in that the headache is much worse when standing, and almost resolves by simply lying down.

The headache can be accompanied by many other symptoms, including neck stiffness, pressure in the back of the head, nausea and vomiting, light sensitivity, decrease in hearing, and pain down the arm. In some cases, the headache pain is so severe the patient can not stay upright.

Spinal Taps are not your friend.