Chiari Malformation

[martynliz]

I was recently diagnosed with Chiari but after seeing my MRI the dr. said I would not require surgery at this time. He will be monitoring me. Can it get worse where it will require surgery? How fast or slow could it progress?

[whatfun]

Just because the flow looks good doesn't mean that it is the symptoms are the thing to go by. It can get worse over time but everyone is different with different symptoms.

[selmaS]

  Do you know what area the MRI was concentrated on? Brain or, cervical spine?.....

With bulging disks I would suggest to have Ehlers-Danlos ruled out.....it can cause joints to shift out of place and cause not only headaches but all over joint pain.

  Gabapentin was not helpful for me I hope you see some benefits in taking it....

You should be able to contact the facility that did your studies and request copies of the reports....

[martynliz]

Hi selmaS

I originally had a CT done for headaches. Then an MRI was ordered and I was sent to a neurosurgeon. I only have a copy of the CT and MRI on disc but no reports.

I have headaches almost constantly and they intensify when I laugh, cough or strain in any way. I get a sharp pain toward the back of my head for no apparent reason. Occasionally I get dizzy or experience blurred vision.

I also found out I have a bulging disc at C3, C4. The Dr. suggested an injection for that and also prescribed gabapentin for me.

Right now that's all I have but the symptoms are still there. I feel like i always have a headache and that makes me always mad. Any suggestions?

[selmaS]

  Hi martynliz and welcome to the Chiari forum.

May I ask what testing was done.....did you just have one brain MRI?

Is this Dr a true Chiari specialist? Do you have copies of your MRI and the report?

How fast or slow it may progress depends on you and the activities you do on a daily basis.....and what other related conditions you may also have.....