Should I see a doctor for clear fluid pouring out of one nostril when I bend over even though I was just swimming (but hit my head)?

I just took an advanced swim test for an aquarium job and although I passed, I did hit my head pretty hard on the concrete pool wall, and then had to continue the test (including a 20ft duck dive) afterwards. Since then (it’s been a couple hours), every time I bend down, a LOT of clear fluid comes pouring out of only one of my nostrils (left). I don’t remember getting any water up my nose during the test! Google says it might be a CSF leak but everyone in my life thinks I’m overreacting and it’s probably just water or stuff from my sinuses… but I’m not so sure… should I see a doctor? I’m living in a different state where I don’t have insurance coverage until January so I don’t want to go to Urgent Care if not needed, which is why I’m asking here first. I was also just at urgent care 5 days ago with a thunderclap headache at the base of my skull/where my neck meets my head and they ordered a head CT without contrast because I had been swimming and they were concerned it was a burst blood vessel. But the CT was clear and they said it must just be a tension migraine. Well, now this! And my migraine had just gone away… I know this thread is obviously not professional medical advice but I’m just hoping someone will tell me if I should be concerned and go to a doctor or if I’m being dramatic. Thank you!

Posted Dec 1, 2025, 8:15 PM UTC

05
Loading comments…