I need help with my Chiari Malformation

[deadmemory]

I was diagnosed with chiari malformation and I have been dealing with worsening symptoms over the past 2 years. Is there a doctor that specializes with Chiari in the Vancouver Wa area?

[selmaS]

  Krystal...we have a list of drs in Canada, they may not be right in ur area, but many of us do need to travel.....

I hope there is a Dr on the list u can get to-http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Chiari-Malformation/CHIARI-DRS-LIST-CANADA/show/1270605

[deadmemory]

Thank you.
I have a neurosurgeon who is referring me to a neurologist. It seems like he isn't taking my symptoms seriously though. I have fallen a few times this past week and I hurt my neck and shoulder as a result of this fall. I have also been experiencing urinary incontinence, head/neck pain to the extent that it feels like something is being "crushed" by pressure and it is causing problems with my eyesight. I also keep gagging and choking on even my own saliva. It feels like my heart is going to burst out of my chest because my heart is beating so rapidly and it is making breathing difficult. I have been turned away by several hospitals and doctors offices because they say they cannot help me. In your opinion, what should I do? What is the next step? Should I seek out a different neurosurgeon for a second opinion? I am beginning to feel discouraged. Any advice would help.  Thank you,
Krystal

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there. I cannot really suggest you a neurologist in the desired area.  Tonsillar herniation or coning where the cerebellar tonsils move downwards through the foramen magnum causing compression of lower brainstem and upper cervical spinal cord as they pass through the same foramen. Increased pressure on brainstem can cause dysfunction of centers in the brain, which control respiration and cardiac function. tonsillar herniation is also called as a Chiari malformation. As per the current accepted radiographic definition for chiari malformation, cerebellar tonsils lying below 5mm the foramen magnum is the limit. There can be causes like malformed posterior fossa causing decreased space for the cerebellum, hydrocephalus, or abnormal volume of CSF pushing the tonsils out. There can be associated connective tissue disorders. You would require to be assessed by a neurosurgeon and treatment would involve removal of culprit mass and decompressive craniectomy. The prognosis is guarded when the herniation is visible on an MRI. Correlation with clinical symptoms is essential and immediate intervention is warranted. Hope this helps. Wish you all the best and God bless. Take care.