Cerebrospinal fluid is a type of body fluid which looks very similar to water. It is a liquid that is clear and colourless. One of its main functions is to protect the central nervous system from damage. It provides mechanical protection and is found surrounding the brain and the spinal cord. The brain produces around 500 millilitres of cerebrospinal fluid each day and is constantly being replaced. Any change in the pressure of it can seriously affect the brain, and it is a very important bodily fluid.
Trauma Resulting in a Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak
After trauma, sometimes this fluid can leak. This is a very serious problem as it indicates some sort of trauma to the brain or spinal cord. You would find a cerebrospinal fluid leak coming from the nose or the ears, so keep an eye out for it. Should you suspect any sort of head or spinal trauma, keep an even keener eye out. If you see a leak or cerebrospinal fluid, make sure that you call the Emergency Medical Services as this is a very serious problem.
Once the patient arrives at the hospital, they will undergo various tests including CT Scans to try and identify the source of the leak. Consequently, they will be able to assess what damage has been done to the brain.
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