Symptoms vary between spinal and cranial CSF leaks. CSF Spinal CSF leaks The most common symptom of a spinal CSF leak is headache. These headaches usually: CSF 
Cause pain in the back of the head
Improve when lying down
Worsen when standing up
May start or worsen with exertion (such as coughing or straining)
Rarely, start suddenly ("thunderclap" headache)
 Other symptoms of spinal CSF leaks may include: CSF 
Neck or shoulder pain
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Changes in hearing
Dizziness
Nausea or vomiting
Changes in vision
Changes in cognition or behavior
 Cranial CSF leaks Cranial CSF leak symptoms may include: CSF 
Clear, watery drainage from the nose or ear (on one side)
Hearing loss
A metallic taste in the mouth
Meningitis 
