In a previous blog post, we talked about the basics of Chiari Malformation. Many kids with type I Chiari malformation have no signs and symptoms and don’t even know that they have a malformation. They find out about it only when they’re tested for another problem.

But if a Chiari malformation is severe enough to block the flow of CSF or put significant pressure on the brain or spinal cord, a child’s nervous system can be affected. Symptoms can include dizziness and problems with balance and coordination. This means a child might fall down a lot, walk unusually, have trouble grasping items, or have poor hand-eye coordination.

Other symptoms can include:

• neck or chest pain
• headaches that are brought on by coughing, sneezing, or laughing
• difficulty swallowing, which may cause gagging, choking, or vomiting
• difficulty speaking
• rapid eye movements or vision problems like light sensitivity or blurred vision
• hearing problems like a tinnitus (ear ringing) or hearing loss
• weakness, numbness, tingling, or other abnormal feelings in the arms and legs
• insomnia
• depression

Signs of Chiari malformation in babies include:

• irritability when being fed
• excessive drooling
• weak cry
• trouble gaining weight
• arm weakness
• developmental delays

Some children with Chiari malformations also have cognitive and behavioral problems. Doctors aren’t sure whether a Chiari malformation directly causes these problems or whether they’re simply the child’s way of reacting to the condition and its symptoms.

Since the symptoms of Chiari malformations vary greatly and may mimic many other conditions, it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis. If you feel unsure about your child’s diagnosis, seek a second opinion.

Related Conditions

Children with Chiari malformations might have other conditions that are associated with the abnormality, such as:

• Hydrocephalus: An excessive buildup of CSF in the brain that causes an enlarged skull and, if left untreated, can lead to brain damage, a loss in mental and physical abilities, and even death.
• Syringomyelia: A disorder in which a cavity called a syrinx develops in the spinal cord. This cavity usually fills with fluid and stretches the spinal cord, which can cause permanent nerve damage and paralysis.
• Scoliosis: A condition that causes a curvature of the spine. Scoliosis can be a complication of syringomyelia, which causes an imbalance in the strength of the muscles that hold the spine straight and upright.

Read about the Diagnosis & Treatment of Chiari Malformation >>

The Neurology and Neurosurgery programs at Primary Children’s Hospital have some of the nation’s best physicians, providing the latest care to children from across the country with Chiari Malformation.