Warning Signs Of Chiari Malformation

In Chiari malformation, a patient's skull may be misshapen or smaller than normal, compressing the cerebellum. The compression causes parts of the brain to protrude into the spinal canal, obstructing signals from the brain to the body. Most cases are congenital and result from genetic mutations, lack of nutrients during pregnancy, infection during pregnancy, or chemical exposure during pregnancy. However, an adult may develop Chiari malformation when infection or an accident results in spinal fluid drainage.

In many cases, Chiari malformation treatment requires monitoring with regular MRIs. Sometimes, patients will need decompression surgery for Chiari malformation. Additionally, as this condition causes some pain, patients may need to take pain medication. Others will need to use a cane for walking if they have an unsteady gait. Consulting a doctor for effectively treating Chiari malformation is key. Of course, it helps if patients to understand the symptoms first.

Neck Pain

When a patient's Chiari malformation is present when they are born, symptoms do not usually manifest until they are in their second or third decade. Neck pain is a prevalent symptom seen in those who have Chiari malformation. The neck pain experienced due to the protrusion of brain tissue into the spinal canal is often described as a heavy pressure that is so strong it produces pain. This pain is known to radiate across a patient's shoulders and down their spine.

There are no pain nerves located in the actual brain tissues that extend into the spinal canal. There is a large concentration of sensory nerve cells in the tissues and areas surrounding them in the vicinity of the spinal canal. When the brain tissue from Chiari malformation causes these nerve fibers to become compressed, pain signals are sent to the brain. The pain in a patient's neck may radiate up into their head and face, manifesting as a headache.

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Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing is most common in young children, toddlers, and infants with type I or type II Chiari malformation. Infants and children may experience frequent choking when they are attempting to feed. This is because of the abnormal compression of the nerves, muscles, and tissues at the base of their head and inside their neck. It may be difficult for patients to keep their airway open at the right times. The nerves in the neck and throat may become confused and cause the epiglottis to malfunction. The epiglottis is a flap of tissue that is meant to stay closed when an individual is breathing and open when consuming food or liquids.

Tissue compression can also adversely affect the muscles responsible for implementing the signals from the nerves. When the muscles do not contract at the proper time, the patient may intend to swallow food or liquid, but the mechanisms in their throat and neck breathe instead. Any of these malfunctions due to tissue compression from Chiari malformation can cause problems swallowing.

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