1. Headache:
A chiari malformation can cause a variety of different headaches, including tension headaches, migraines, and cervicogenic headaches. The headache may be located in any part of the head, but is often concentrated in the back of the head or neck.
2. Dizziness:
Dizziness can be a common symptom of a Chiari malformation. It may be accompanied by feelings of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or vertigo.
3. Neck pain:
Neck pain is another common symptom of a Chiari malformation. The pain may be sharp or dull and may radiate down the arms or legs.
4. Difficulty balancing:
People with a Chiari malformation may often experience difficulty balancing. This may make activities such as walking or climbing stairs difficult to do.
5. Blurred vision:
Blurred vision can be another symptom of a Chiari malformation. It may be caused by pressure on the optic nerve from the protruding cerebellum.
6. Ringing in the ears (tinnitus):
Tinnitus is a ringing, buzzing, or whistling noise that is heard in the ears. It can be a common symptom of a Chiari malformation.
7. Pressure or fullness in the ear canals:
Pressure or fullness in the ear canals can also be a symptom of a Chiari malformation. This pressure can cause pain and lead to hearing loss if left untreated.
8. Nausea and vomiting:
Nausea and vomiting are two other common symptoms of a Chiari malformation. They may be caused by pressure on the stomach from the protruding cerebellum.
9. Slurred speech or difficulty speaking:
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking can be symptoms of a Chiari malformation if they are caused by pressure on the brainstem from the protruding cerebellum.
10. Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs:
Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs can also be symptoms of a Chiari malformation if they are caused by compression of the spinal cord from the protruding cerebellum.