Does my son have Arnold Chiari Disease?

[paskamom]

My son just recently turned six. He has complained of headaches for over a year. I have had them checked out and they always say it's probably sinus or dehydration. This past few months I brought him back because they seem to be more frequent. Again they tried to say the same thing but this time I mentioned that Arnold Chiari Disease seems to run in my family. I have two nephews who have been diagnosed and had surgery.
My son now has been complaining of neck pain and I thought maybe it is the way he sleeps or maybe he needs a new pillow. When I checked with my siblings and asked if neck pain is a sympton I couldn't believe they confimed it. That is why I am now researching on my own. My question is should I insist he see a specialist or go back to the pediatricians? I am starting to get worried and I just want someone to take this serious and not brush it off as a migraine or sinus.
thank you for your help
Worried Mom in Mass.

[olsonkids4]

HI..I am so sorry that you and your son are going through this...along with the rest of the family.  I had the same problem getting anyone to listen to me and finally got his Reg dr to order the MRI.  In our area it takes a long time (4-6 months) to see a NL.  If you have the MRI it diffently speeds things up if needed.  Good Luck

[shanmomof3]

Hi and welcome to the group! I agree with selma and carolyn, you definately need to get an mri done! I also agree you should check with your nephew's dr if your pediatrician wont do it. Blessings ~ Shannon

[*Stormy*]

Hello and welcome!

I totally agree, I would insist on them doing an MRI!! The headaches and then the neck pain sound all too familiar! I was told that my headaches were sinus issues for years and I tried all the decongestant sprays and allergie meds and nothing worked. Then came the neck pain and it kept progressing from there..

I would bring up the family history to your DR which gives you a valid reason to get an MRI. Like Selma said, if he won't do it, try and get someone who will.

As much as I wouldn't want your DS to have this, I pray that you find the answers to his symptoms.

Take care,

Carolyn

[selmaS]

Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum....

Listen to ur mother's instincts......get him checked...as for a MRI as this does run in the family...if his Ped will not order the tests....see if ur insurance will cover if u go to a NL on ur own.....(NL= neurologist)  they do the dxing...once u have a dx u will want a NS that is a true chiari specialist.

Is the dr that treated ur nephews in ur local area?...if so, they may be willing to help u.

It is possible there may be something else going on, but with the family history, I would at least want to rule it out...BTW, many with chiari have sinus issues.....

We r happy to have u join our little family here, so sorry the reason u had to seek us out.

Please keep us posted !!

"selma"