I have been recently diagnosed w/ Chiari 1. I have a 7mm herniation and my dr is trying various medications and trying to avoid surgery. Because of other medical problems, I would like to avoid the surgery, too, but if it's just inevitable that I will need it in the future, then I would like to know that and just get it over with. I have had 2 car accidents, which I think started the symptoms--one in 2004 and one last year. The symptoms (terrible headaches and dizziness, where I literally can't stand up without leaning on something, as well as blurred vision, which is new for me. I dont even wear glasses normally) have gotten MUCH worse since my car accident last year. I do think my current dr seems mostly up to date on Chiari and does acknowledge that it's causing my symptoms, but I was wondering if I should also look into seeing a Chiari specialist just to see if there are other medications or treatments, other than surgery, that may help. I know 7mm is not a severe Chiari, so am still hoping for avoiding surgery. I live near Durham NC. Does anyone know of a good Chiari specialist in the area? Thanks.