Chiari 1

[Nina2807]

Hi! I went for a MRI , MRA, CT because I was having exertion headaches. I was found to have a 7mm- 8mm protrusion. Is this a high number . Do you think this qualifies as Chiari? What should I do next?  ;(

[selmaS]

  CSF = Cerebral spinal fluid...

Our body uses the CSF to send signals up and down our spinal cord, if there is a blockage (obstruction) to the flow then we have signals that do not get thru...so we can have symptoms of breathing issues, vision that gets blurry and drop attacks....

I did post a link to the Health Pages so u can look at the list of Drs....I do not recall if there is a Dr in ur area or not, be advised u may have to travel.

[Nina2807]

What is a CSF obstruction? What is a CINE MRI?

I live in Connecticut.

Thank you for helping me, Denise

[selmaS]

  Hi and welcome to the Chiari forum.

I know many Drs look to the length of herniation to classify Chiari as Chiari, but it is a Malformation of the skull that is Chiari and that is what causes the tonsils to herniate.....

And next, do u need a NS...that will be determined once u know if u have a CSF obstruction a CINE MRI is the best way to find out, the CINE can also help determine if u have overcrowding as well.

Not knowing where u r from, going to a NS that is a Chiari specialist may help u get more testing as many work with a NL....we do have several lists, and as Frankie said they are not referrals nor endorsements, only names of Drs other members have been to and liked, the lists are here for u to use to research Drs...we advise u see a few, compare them , and after u educate urself u will be able to select the right Dr for u.

[Nina2807]

Thank you so much.

[frankie_rush]

I would find a Chairi specalist and go to him. You can search the forum here for doctors oters have used, but only as a reference not a referal and questions to ask the DR.  Remember the best thing you are not alone we are here.  Welcome to the family