Epidural or spinal anaesthetic – What to look out for

You had an epidural infusion or spinal anaesthetic whilst you were in hospital.

These can provide excellent pain relief and the risk of any problems afterwards is very low. However, you should be aware that extremely rare but serious complications, such as a collection of pus or a blood clot around the spinal cord, can happen after you are discharged from hospital. These rare complications need urgent treatment to prevent permanent injury.

illustration of a back showing epidural site and needle

Symptoms to be concerned about after you have had an epidural/spinal anaesthetic

illustration showing a sore or pus filled spot on the lower back

Redness, pus, tenderness or moderate/severe pain at the epidural/spinal site.

Image of thermometer showing above 38 degrees centigrade to be a high temperature

High temperature (above 38ºC), neck stiffness.

Illustration of person bending over with back pain

New severe back pain.

Illustration of leg

New weakness, increasing numbness or new loss of sensation in your legs.

Illustration of female bladder

New loss of bladder or bowel control.

Illustration of person with headache.

Continuous headache, worse on standing, not relieved by simple pain relief.

If you have any of these symptoms in the next few days or weeks, go to the Emergency Department immediately and refer to this information. If you have been discharged from Maternity, please contact the Maternity Assessment Centre (MAC) on 01274 364532 which can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

People with hearing and speech difficulties

You can contact us using the Relay UK app. Textphone users will need to dial 18001 before the number to be contacted.

Accessible Information

If you need this information in another format or language, please ask a member of staff.

Smoking

Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is a smoke-free organisation. You are not permitted to smoke or use e-cigarettes in any of the hospital buildings or grounds.

Wristbands

When you are in hospital it is essential to wear a wristband at all times to make sure you are safe during your stay. The wristband will show accurate details about you on it including all the information that staff need to identify you correctly and give you the right care.

If you do not have a wristband whilst in hospital, then please ask a member of staff for one. If it comes off or is uncomfortable, ask a member of staff to replace it.