A Clear Guide to Chiari Malformation
Expert Management for Chiari Malformation
Headaches, dizziness, or balance issues with neck pain? Chiari malformation symptoms are common and often manageable, not usually a sign of something acutely serious. At Harley AVM, we address vestibular effects effectively. Seek urgent AVM care for severe headaches, swallowing difficulty, weakness, or vision changes, as these require immediate evaluation.
Structural Brain–Spine Junction Abnormality
An Overview of Chiari Malformation
Chiari malformation is a structural condition where parts of the brain, usually the cerebellar tonsils, extend downward into the upper spinal canal. This displacement can crowd the junction between the brain and spine, altering the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid and affecting balance, coordination, and neurological function.
Symptoms vary widely and may include dizziness, unsteadiness, headache, neck pain, visual disturbance, or coordination difficulty. Some people remain asymptomatic, while others develop progressive issues over time. Because features can overlap with vestibular disorders, careful clinical assessment is important. Accurate identification focuses on understanding symptom patterns and structural findings to guide appropriate monitoring or referral.
Pinpointing the Cause
Diagnosing Chiari Malformation
When to Get Checked
You should get assessed if persistent dizziness, imbalance, headaches, or neck pain worsen with coughing, straining, or changes in posture. Progressive coordination difficulty, visual disturbance, or unexplained neurological symptoms should prompt expert review.
You should seek urgent assessment if symptoms escalate rapidly or include weakness, numbness, difficulty swallowing, speech changes, severe headache, or problems walking safely. Early evaluation helps distinguish Chiari malformation from other neurological or vestibular causes and guides timely referral.
How We Assess Chiari Malformation
At Harley Audiovestibular Clinic, our process starts with evaluating your detailed history, exploring headache patterns, dizziness, balance issues, neck pain, tinnitus, and neurological symptoms to identify Chiari malformation effects on vestibular and auditory systems. We prioritise unhurried consultations with our consultants, creating a personalised understanding of your symptoms.
We advance with neurological exams, vestibular function tests, audiometry, imaging review, and cerebrospinal fluid assessments to confirm the diagnosis accurately, excluding alternatives. Our senior clinicians review these collaboratively for precise, comprehensive insights. This expert pathway distinguishes us, informing tailored management that alleviates symptoms and improves function effectively. At Harley AVM, we ensure personalised follow-up for optimal long-term outcomes.
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DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
Specialist Tests to Assess Hearing, Balance and Inner Ear Health
Harley Street Specialists in Hearing, Dizziness & Balance
Specialist Care for Chiari Malformation
Every Chiari Malformation case is different. Your consultant will create a tailored plan to address your specific symptoms and lifestyle – when it started, how it affects your day, and which tests and treatments are right for you.