Lumbar Puncture - Attempt #2
Much better success this time around. I think it was the combination of a different position (on my side, rather than leaning over), keeping my head up, a different anesthetic (bupivicaine vs. lidocaine) and 5mg valium for relaxation. When the first injection was made, I felt my body react in a negative way, but somehow the feeling subsided and we were able to go forward (at a deliberate pace) for the second injection of bupivicaine. Then came the lumbar puncture itself - which I did not feel at all. Apparently, my cerebral spinal fluid flowed at a reasonably good rate because I was done in perhaps 5-10 minutes.
All in all, very smooth.
Except for the massive headache - which is to be expected. Obviously not too horrible, as I am typing this.
Next step is to get the results (later this week, probably Wed/Thursday) and then I will post another update.