Chiari - change in skin tone

[Holly216]

My 16 year old granddaughter was recently diagnosed with Chiari I Malformation.  Fatigue is one of her many symptons.  In addition, when she is very tired, the skin tone on her face often changes from normal to very pale, gray and at times a pale green.  This will pass in a few minutes and then her normal color returns.  I have not seen this symtom listed anywhere.  Does anyone know if this is related to spinal fluid flow from spine to brain, or fluid in the brain or blood pressure changes?

[Viva001]

I had bright red patches on my cheeks before surgery, when I never had them at all before.

Skin color is important; I think a lot of health care professionals have forgotten--or never learned--this ancient wisdom.  My DH developed a very gray pallor.  When I tried to direct attention to this, my concerns were brushed off.  Turns out he had a pituitary tumor!  It would've been nice to have it removed before it exploded.

[Holly216]

Thanks for your interesting reply.....sounds like you've experienced something similiar.  I researched POTS, have not heard of that before but that's a possibility as well.  I really appreciate your response and look forward to learning more everyday.

[Holly216]

Thanks so much for your informative and thoughtful reply.   So happy to find this forum.  As you know with Chiari there are more questions than answers.  My granddaughter has consulted with a neurosurgeon and a small team of other specialists - she is scheduled for surgery at month end.  I appreciate your response and look forward to learning more everyday.

[Holly216]

Thanks for your reply - you described it perfectly.  As you know and as I'm learning, there are more questions than answers with Chiari.  I'm glad I found this site and I appreciate your reply.

[linnielou232]

Welcome to our Chairi family.  So sorry to hear about your dear grand daughter and what brings you hear, but so happy that you found this forum.   It is a great form in information and support for all who try to understand Chairi.  I know for me when my Chairi would flare up others would be able to tell because the color of my skin. I never felt it, but I would think it would have something to do with the pressure in the head.  It can get really bad at times.  Does your grand daughter have a Chairi Specalist?  This is the 1st thing most suggest when getting this Dx.d.  Wish you the best in this journey and know your not alone and there are a lot of loving and understanding Chairians on here that will be here for you
when you need answers, love, understanding and support.  
Linda :)

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

U asked a great question....not too many have asked or discussed this one b4.....I know I have changed color too, but I always felt it may have to do with all the other issues,...feeling nauseated, etc....that will change neone to a green tone....

Many also have POTS where the blood puddles in the lower extremities and that can account for a lower blood flow in the face,...and a change in color....

So, what she may have in relation to her chiari can have an affect and it may not be the chiari directly.

[lynnbrook177]

I seem to get really red and flushed at times, for no apparent reason. Not sure why, but I am dealing with those mean old menopausal changes so I never know what is causing what :s

[irislita]

Well i do have chiari...and yes i have the same issue.i can get a really grey tone in my face when i am tired,seems as if no blood is running there anymore...i always was wondering why people still look the same and i am getting greyer and greyer