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Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

General

Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, or CSF leak, is when the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord leaks from the nostrils. The CSF protects and supports the brain and spinal cord from injury. When a big amount of CSF leaks out of the brain, the intracranial pressure drops. If that occurs, the brain may put pressure on the lower parts of the brain and cause symptoms. CSF leak may be caused due to injuries to the face, head, neck or spine, Marfan syndrome, intracranial hypertension, pseudotumor cerebri, obesity or structural defects.

13 people with Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea

Learn from others who are experiencing Cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea.

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Signs & symptoms

A small leak may not cause any symptoms, or only runny nose. If intracranial pressure drops symptoms may include headache which worsens when sitting or standing up, loss of sense of smell, blurred or double vision, hearing loss, tinnitus, seizures, neck pain, vomiting, nausea, vertigo, loss of appetite, photophobia and balance problems.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include imaging tests and lab tests of the fluid.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include only rest, medications, blood patch injection, and surgical procedures.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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