Chiari

[dldjcc76]

Recently told I have Chiari I at 6mm. I am waiting to see the NS, can anyone tell me what to expect. Is 6mm bad? I do have the terrible headaches, blurred vision, and now unable to sleep. I do not know much about this condition other than what i have read on here. The only thing my primary doctor did was give me a print out from the Mayo Clinic website and said referred to a NS.
Please help me to understand what this is and what to expect!

[selmaS]

HI and welcome.to the Chiari forum.

Well Ray and Brooklyn gave u some good info.... I will include the link to the drs list we have...this is a way to help u get started on ur research of chiari drs.

The list is not a referral, but the names of drs the members here have been to and liked...u will need to select a few after u research them and see which is the right one for u.

Keep in mind u may need to travel to get to the drs.

As Ray mentioned ur dr should test u for other related conditions as well as autoimmune issues as we chiarians r prone to have them and many symptoms can be similar to those of chiari...so u do want to know which symptoms r a result of ur chiari and other conditions.

Glad to have u here, but sorry for the reasons that brought u

"selma"

[rod44]

Hi & Welcome.
Chiari Malformation is not so much the size of the herniation, your Neurosurgeon will be looking to see if there is overcrowding in the area, the amount of tissue that is occupying the area. They will be looking at your symptoms and how they are affecting your quality of life and formulating a treatment plan.
This is where things get a little messy, the only treatment for symptomatic CM is surgery but unfortunately Surgery is not a cure but a treatment. Many if not most NS dont know much about CM as it is relatively rare. It is important to find a NS who has good experience of treating CM.
You will need a full spinal MRI to rule out related conditions such as a Syrinx (Syringomyelia) Tethered Cord and other such conditions. Most have a CINI MRI to check for CSF obstruction, this happens when the Brain and Spinal fluid is blocked and can lead to complications.
We have an information page on this forum. You will find it under Health Pages on the top right of this page. You will find a list of Doctors that people on here have used but we recommend that you research any doctor you choose.
As brooklynn said be prepared for different doctors with differing opinions, get to know and understand your condition, dont be afraid to ask those questions, you will then know if the Doctors are giving good advice & treatment.
  
Ray :)

[Brooklynn07]

First of all you've come to the right place! I can't believe the replies I have recieved, and the help and support here. It is kinda scary at first, but do as much research as possible.

I don't think the size of the Chiari is as important as the symptoms. For example some could have a big one but no symptoms.

Also be prepared to see many doctors, I have seen three NS and have had so many crazy answers. I have been told countless times to see a Chiari specialist. If you need to find one in your area there is a post in this forum. Very helpfull.

Don't be afraid to ask any questions and we will help as much as possible!