Learn which tests confirm a csf leak. While a runny nose can be alleviated by taking allergy medication and typically subsides within a week, a csf leak presents as more than just a common runny nose 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
What is the Difference Between a Runny Nose and a CSF Leak?
Runny nose what's the difference
Csf leak and runny nose are two conditions that involve the discharge of fluid from the nose, but they have distinct differences
A csf leak occurs when cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord, escapes through a tear or hole in the skull or the lining of the brain. A headache can be a sign of a cerebrospinal fluid (csf) leak if you have had a recent head injury You may also have a runny nose, neck pain, and nausea. Runny nose and csf leak produce nasal discharge but differ significantly in their causes, symptoms, and associated risks
Understanding these distinctions helps identify serious conditions like csf leaks early. On the other hand, symptoms of a csf leak include clear thin liquid running from the nose, increased drainage when leaning forward or changing positions, salty or metallic taste in the mouth, lack of smell, headaches, and fatigue.
