NS diagnosed me with chiari a few weeks ago 7 mm herniation. Today he reviewed results of full spine and cine mri. No syrinx, csf flow isn’t “normal” but the flow is good enough to not automatically attribute my symptoms to chiari. Symptoms are dizziness, poor balance, tinnitus, pressure in head and neck, fatigue, occasionally vision is less sharp/ can’t focus as quickly. I’ve already had a full ent evaluation along with the spinning chair, water in ears etc. the ent emphatically told me this is not an ent issue, I cannot help you. Guess where the NS wants me to go? Yep back for another ent evaluation-spinning chair etc. NS also said he wants me to see a neurologist to see if my symptoms are vestibular or neuro related. So. Frustrated. I just want to feel Beter. Anyone experience this? Suggestions?
I never had any issues with my CSF flow… 5mm herniation is what I had… and my NS was all over chiari. he didn’t think it would stop my vomiting and my GI issues but everything else (most of what you listed) he said was chiari all the way. I had the surgery and it fixed everything including the GI issues.
Nikki, there is not a way to look at a persons MRI and draw a conclusion that it is the Chiari causing the symptoms. Some people have a very large herniation and syrinx with no symptoms, others a tiny herniation or Chiari 0 and severe symptoms. I think it’s a good idea to rule out other causes, but how many ENT appointments does it take to say there’s no ENT issue? If you feel doubt about your NS get another opinion from a Chiari specialist.
I was told by first couple of NS that my imaging didn’t show enough “severity” so I moved on to an NS. Honestly, there are different camps, no set guidelines or protocols NS agree on. If you feel your issues are Chiari find and NS who decides on surgery based on symptoms and quality of life.
Jenn
Thanks nienie and Jenn! My understanding is that the goal of surgery is to increase csf flow. My concern is if my flow is okay (not great) can surgery give me relief from my symptoms? And I have contacted a specialist in Colorado…I’m so tired of the rat race!
The herniation can block the flow of csf, but it can also put pressure on the brain stem, nerves, and blood vessels. All of these things can cause symptoms. My flow appeared to minimally affected, my brainstem and artery were distorted. You also need to be aware possible cranio cervical instability. CCI is common in people with hypermobility, hypermobility is common in people with Chiari.please watch this video about CCI
CSFinfo.org
Videos
Metropolitan Area
Video about cranio cervical instability and chiari
Take a look at Beighton Criteria and the Brighton Criteria to get an idea of GI hypermobiity is diagnosed.
Jenn
Ps dr Oro is a favorite, a very nice man and has great reputation with Decompressions. I’m not sure if he screens for CCI though …
Thank you so much Jenn! Is the video by dr Henderson? Just want to make sure to watch the right one!
Yes Dr henderson 
He’s your dr! Where is his practice located? Popping popcorn and watching the csf video with my hubby after scandal tonight lol
He's in Baltimore area Maryland. Metropolitan neurosurgery group. Last I heard there is a 1 year wait to see him.
There are so many priceless videos on that site! Jenn
Thanks ladies for the helpful info!