Arnold Chiari Malformation?

Question

I have this awful disease, but nobody can tell I have it. I look normal both physically and mentally...lol..I think! I really would like to find people like myself and just talk. I've been awful sick in past, but being hard headed and decided to be a fighter. I'm winning, so far, just need to know I'm not only one with this burden. I live in Fort Worth, TX and happy, caring, female.

Answer 1

Arnold-Chiari malformation is a rare malformation of the brain that is sometimes, but not always, apparent at birth. It is characterized by abnormalities in the area where the brain and spinal cord meet that cause part of the cerebellum to protrude through the bottom of the skull (foramen magnum) into the spinal canal. This interferes with the flow of cerebral spinal fluid to and from the brain, leading to accumulation of cerebral spinal fluid in the empty spaces of the spine and brain. The portion of the cerebellum that protrudes into the spinal canal can become elongated and is called the "cerebellar tonsils" because it resembles the tonsils.
Please see the webpages for more details on Arnold Chiari malformation.

Answer 2

You sound like a nice person, Chiari appears to be a serious condition continue to fight and be a winner. I like that attitude, never give up.


Chiari malformations (CMs) are structural defects in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance. When the indented bony space at the lower rear of the skull is smaller than normal, the cerebellum and brain stem can be pushed downward. The resulting pressure on the cerebellum can block the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (the liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord) and can cause a range of symptoms including dizziness, muscle weakness, numbness, vision problems, headache, and problems with balance and coordination. There are three primary types of CM. The most common is Type I, which may not cause symptoms and is often found by accident during an examination for another condition. Type II (also called Arnold-Chiari malformation) is usually accompanied by a myelomeningocele-a form of spina bifida that occurs when the spinal canal and backbone do not close before birth, causing the spinal cord to protrude through an opening in the back. This can cause partial or complete paralysis below the spinal opening. Type III is the most serious form of CM, and causes severe neurological defects. Other conditions sometimes associated with CM include hydrocephalus, syringomyelia, and spinal curvature.

Answer 3

I think you need to quite watching soap operas and get a real life... too much 'doctor talk' about obscure illnesses can lead to Hypochondria.