Arnold Chiari Malformation
The most frequent complaint
is headache and neck pain.
The headache is usually in the
back of the head and neck area
and is aggravated by cough,
sneezing, or exertion.
The headache may also worsen by
turning or extension of the neck.
Brain stem, spinal cord, cranial nerve,
and cerebellum problems include:
disordered eye movements ("jumping eyes")
facial pain or pins and needles feelings
hearing loss
ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
dizziness
swallowing difficulties
sleep apnea
respiratory arrest
cough syncope (light headedness or fainting)
nystagmus (jerking eye movements)
dysarthria (difficulty in speaking)
ataxia (balance and coordination problems)
sensory dysesthesias/numbness
chronic sensory loss
weakeness in the upper extremities
bowel and bladder difficulties.People with ACM I and cough syncope syndrome
sometimes have irregular heart rates.
Some have problems with their heart rate
when going from lying down
moving up to a sitting position.
The MRI is the best test for people
suspected of having a Chiari Malformation.
Many research studies are being conducted
into this disorder. Links to various sites
for further information are available
by sending a request to my E-Mail box.
A super site for information is located at
WACMA
There are nearly 1,000 members here.
