Numbing spray in the nose may ease severe headaches after spinal tap mishap

NCT ID NCT07494383

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested a simple procedure called a sphenopalatine ganglion block (SPGB) — applying numbing medicine (lidocaine) inside the nose — against standard care (bed rest and extra fluids) for people who developed a severe headache after an accidental spinal needle puncture. Twenty-six adults took part. The main goal was to see if the study design was practical, not yet to prove the treatment works. Results will help plan a larger trial.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

lidocaine (nasal spray)

What this could lead to

If this approach works, it could offer a quick, non-surgical way to relieve severe headaches after accidental spinal needle puncture.

What could go wrong

This is a very small pilot study (26 people) testing feasibility, not effectiveness. The nerve block may not work better than simple bed rest and fluids, and it carries rare risks like nosebleed or allergic reaction.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Headache headache disorder intracranial hypotension Post-Dural Puncture Headache

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Hospital Regional "General Ignacio Zaragoza," ISSSTE

    Mexico City, Mexico City, 09360, Mexico