Cerebrospinal Fluid Rhinorrhea Treatment in India

Vivaan Miller, a 42-year-old high school...

Vivaan Miller, a 42-year-old high school physics teacher and avid cyclist, was involved in a minor bicycle accident six months ago where he hit his head but didn't lose consciousness. A few weeks later, he began experiencing a persistent, clear, watery drip from his right nostril, especially when he bent forward. Initially dismissing it as allergies, he grew concerned when he developed two episodes of meningitis-like headaches. His ENT specialist, after hearing his history, suspected CSF rhinorrhea. A CT scan confirmed a tiny bony defect in his skull base from the trauma. The doctor recommended endoscopic surgical repair to seal the leak, explaining the risk of recurrent, life-threatening meningitis if left untreated. Vivaan underwent a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure where surgeons used a small graft from his nasal tissue to patch the leak. He spent one night in the hospital. Recovery involved strict instructions: no nose blowing, strenuous activity, or bending over for six weeks. After an anxious recovery period, follow-up tests confirmed the leak was sealed. Emotionally, Vivaan journeyed from initial denial and frustration ('just a runny nose') to fear after the meningitis episodes, then to relief and gratitude post-surgery. He returned to teaching and cycling with a newfound appreciation for his health and a helmet he never rides without.