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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Nerve damage following syringomyelia
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Nerve damage following syringomyelia
by Moonflake, Oct 31, 2003 12:00AM
I do hope someone can help me....Im a 22 yr old with spina bifida. I also have syringomyelia (csf fluid build up in the spine). 5 years ago i had a shunt inserted to reduce this build up, but I have recently started experiencing new and severe symptoms. Basically the fluid is building up again, which is putting pressure on the nerves to my hands and arms. In 3 months I have lost all movement in my right hand, and have started to lose it in my left hand too. I also have quite extensive muscle wastage in both hands and arms.Due to the build up, i experience excruciating pain across my upper back. I have been told i will need another shunt inserted but it seems to be taking so long, whilst my symptoms are escalating by the minute.If anyone can give ideas as to anything i can do to benefit my situation i would be grateful. I dont know if there are exercises i could do, or eat certain foods. Everything I know about my situation is from my own research...i have not actually been given any direct information myself. I use a wheelchair and dont know what i would do if i lost ability completely in both hands as i would then have to be completely dependent on someone else. Any suggestions are gretly appreciated.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS, Oct 31, 2003 12:00AM
I am not aware of any medical therapy for syringomyelia. If your symptoms are progressing you should immediately inform your surgeon, so that something may be done sooner. Good luck.
Member Comments (2)
by PT-works, Nov 04, 2003 12:00AM
Moonflakes, Syringomyelia is often associated with Neural Tube Defects including a condition called Chiari Malformation. If you search the web for Chiari---Chip's Chiari Page----is an excellent source of info concerning this problem, symptoms, etc. You have most likely had extensive work-ups, and this malformation would have been disclosed....sometimes medicine misses. You are wise to educate yourself on all your treatment options and with the help of skilled medical professionals, decide your best course of action. Good luck, Kathy
