Is Chiari malformation type 1 a disability?

If you have Arnold-Chiari Malformation that has resulted in severe symptoms that have made you unable to work, you may be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. A chiari malformation (CM) is a defect in the brain structure.

What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Chiari malformation?

There are two main kinds of Chiari malformations. Type 1 Chiari malformation symptoms and signs can show up in infants, children, teens or adults. Type 2 Chiari malformation is associated with spina bifida and is present at birth. Surgery can address symptoms such as headache, hydrocephalus, sleep apnea and others.

Can Chiari 1 malformation be cured?

There is no cure for Chiari malformation, but treatment helps to relieve symptoms and restore quality of life. Chiari type I treatment is based on a number of factors, including symptom severity and whether or not a syrinx exists.

Can you live a long life with Chiari malformation?

Patients with Chiari type I malformation, the mildest form of the condition, are typically diagnosed in adulthood and have a normal life expectancy and good outcomes with treatment and/or surgery. Despite extensive malformations, some patients with Chiari II have normal intelligence and can function independently.

Does Chiari ever go away?

Syringomyelia associated with a Chiari malformation usually does not require direct treatment. In most cases, syringomyelia improves on its own after surgery to correct a Chiari malformation because the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid is restored.

How serious is Chiari malformation?

Untreated Chiari malformation type I may result in the development of fluid-filled cavities in the brain (hydrocephalus) or spinal cord (syrinx), which may eventually lead to syringomyelia . This condition can lead to irreversible brain or spinal cord damage.

Does Chiari malformation go away?

When symptoms interfere with daily life, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the brain. Depending on your individual circumstances, recovery after Chiari malformation surgery can take several weeks and some symptoms may take up to a year to resolve.

What is the life expectancy of someone with syringomyelia?

The life expectancy of people with syringomyelia depends on the severity of each case. Life expectancy is generally similar to that of the general population, but in cases where syringomyelia manifests itself severely and surgical intervention is needed, the prognosis can be worse and life expectancy less than that of the general population.

How do I explain what Chiari malformation is?

Chiari malformation (kee-AH-ree mal-for-MAY-shun) is a condition in which brain tissue extends into your spinal canal . It occurs when part of your skull is abnormally small or misshapen, pressing on your brain and forcing it downward. Chiari malformation is uncommon, but increased use of imaging tests has led to more frequent diagnoses.

Is Chiari malformation type 1 a disability? If you have Arnold-Chiari Malformation that has resulted in severe symptoms that have made you unable to work, you may be eligible to receive Social Security disability benefits. A chiari malformation (CM) is a defect in the brain structure. What is the difference between Type 1 and Type…