small syrinxs vs bulging discs and arthritis

[sebrina70]

Hi.  I had Chiari Malformation in 2008.  I had no syrinx at the time.  I had decompression surgery.  Now, I have two small syrinx and problems with my neck...pain and some tingling in my hands and weakness. I have bulging discs and some arthritis.  My questions are...How do i tell if my problems are caused my syrinx versus a disc problem? Also, i am having some steriod injections in my neck..is this an appropriate way to go?  Thanks for your time.

[selmaS]

Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

It is possible the symptoms are due to the syrinx, but the syrinx's are  most likely due to the bulging disks.....never ending circle or issues......as it is possible for the disks to create an obstruction to CSF flow which would cause a syrinx to form, which is why we have decompression surgery...to restore CSF flow and help avoid the formation of a syrinx. It seems you may need to see a specialist to see how to best decide which way to attack this....I have a feeling it might be to fix the disks if that is possible and hope it restores CSF flow. JMHO which is not a medical opinion.

[sebrina70]

i had decompression of my head.  so do i need to see a neurologist or back doctor?  Thanks for your response.  I had an steriod injection today and it was horrible.  got a bad headache.

[selmaS]

I would see the same Dr to review the syrinx's and advise whom is best to help.....

[sebrina70]

ty for your response!!

[selmaS]

you're welcome do keep us posted on your progress.

[sebrina70]

ty I will.