I've never had one. And from what I hear, they're super painful. But the staff at whatever hospital we were in made it as pleasant as possible. Vicki and I (serving as the peanut gallery) were also there to lighten the mood. Look at those sexy socks! I took some home. I most certainly did.
But I tell you, spinal taps are serious business. Usually you curl up in the fetal position and they stick you. These fancy Maryland doctors thought it better to bend my mother over a table. Must be some newfangled treatment. From what I saw, it wasn't worth it.
When Dr. Theresa and her sensible shoes tried to get the needle in, she could not. And my mother felt it. She did not feel "slight pressure." She felt pain that made her nauseous and clammy. But that Dr. Theresa was apparently on a mission. She kept trying and my mom kept saying she was going to vomit.
Dr. Theresa took a break.
Nurse Pamela (her stage name) got my mother some cold water.
My mother drank it.
Theresa and her shoes tried again.
My mother screamed.
Dr. Theresa took the hint.
She called Dr. Fleischman. He's her boss and the chief of the Neurology at this hospital. He apparently does not take "no" for an answer. Not even from vertebrae. He popped down, popped that needle in and got his fluid in a flash.
Once that was over, they prescription is rest and fluids. Apparently caffeine helps the spinal hole close. But oh-ho! My mother is a diabetic. I don't think caffeine is on her good list. I could be wrong. But I know everything she has to drink is diet or sugar free. Doctors are dumb. But the spinal tap was over.
holy shit!!!! i thought spinal tap was the name of a band. that sucks... those nappy ho doctors
ReplyDeleteI agree with mr/ms anonymous. The spinal indeed made me say HOLY SHIT.
ReplyDeletemommy dearest