@sharonthelen

I also looked up what types of doctors to see if you have CSF leaks.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are typically managed by specialists with expertise in the central nervous system and related conditions. The following types of doctors are commonly involved in the diagnosis and treatment of CSF leaks:

## Types of Doctors Who Treat CSF Leaks

### 1. **Neurologist**
- **Role**: Neurologists specialize in disorders of the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. They can evaluate symptoms, perform diagnostic tests, and manage non-surgical treatment options for CSF leaks.

### 2. **Neurosurgeon**
- **Role**: Neurosurgeons are specialized in surgical interventions for conditions affecting the brain and spine. If a CSF leak requires surgical repair, a neurosurgeon will perform the procedure to locate and fix the tear in the dura mater.

### 3. **Pain Management Specialist**
- **Role**: These specialists may be involved in managing the pain associated with CSF leaks, particularly if headaches are severe. They can provide non-surgical interventions, such as epidural blood patches.

### 4. **Radiologist**
- **Role**: Interventional radiologists may assist in diagnosing CSF leaks through imaging studies and may perform procedures like blood patches under imaging guidance.

### 5. **Otolaryngologist (ENT)**
- **Role**: If the CSF leak is related to the skull base or involves the sinuses, an ENT specialist may be involved in the diagnosis and treatment, especially if surgical intervention is needed.

### 6. **Rheumatologist**
- **Role**: In cases where connective tissue disorders contribute to CSF leaks, a rheumatologist may be involved in the overall management of the underlying condition.

If you suspect a CSF leak, starting with a neurologist is often a good choice, as they can guide you through the diagnostic process and refer you to other specialists as needed.