Chiari malformation

Symptomsof Chiari I malformations

Many people with a Chiari I malformation will not have any symptoms. Sometimes they'reonly foundafter an (MRI) scanof the brainis carried out for another reason.

If symptoms do develop, theycan include:

headaches these areusually feltat the back of the headand may be brought on or made worse by coughing, straining,sneezing or bending over
neck pain
dizzinessand balance problems
muscle weakness
numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
blurred vision,double vision and sensitivity to light
swallowing problems
hearing lossand tinnitus
feeling and being sick
difficulty sleeping (insomnia) and depression

If you developsyringomyelia, you may also experience problems using your hands, difficulty walking, pain, and problems with bladder or bowel control.

If you've been diagnosed with a Chiari malformation, you should contact your doctor for advice if you develop any new symptoms or your symptoms worsen.

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018

Articles for chiari malformation

Introduction

Find out what a Chiari malformation is, what problems it may cause, why it happens and how it can be treated.

AreChiari I malformations serious?

The severity of Chiari malformations can vary from person to person, but generally: Chiari I malformations aren't considered life-threatening some people experience painful headaches, movement proble

Symptomsof Chiari I malformations

Many people with a Chiari I malformation will not have any symptoms. Sometimes they'reonly foundafter an (MRI) scanof the brainis carried out for another reason.If symptoms do develop, theycan include

TreatmentsforChiari I malformations

Treatment for Chiari I malformation depends on whether you have any symptoms and how severe they are. You might not need any treatment if you don't have any symptoms.Painkillers can help relieve any h

CausesofChiari I malformations

The exact cause of Chiari I malformations is unknown. It tends to be present from birth, but is normally only found in adulthood when symptoms develop or when an MRI scan is done. Many cases are thoug

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