Syringomyeli människa
Syringomyelia (sih-ring-go-my-E-lee-uh) is the development of a fluid-filled cyst (syrinx) within your spinal cord. Over time, the cyst can enlarge, damaging your spinal cord and causing pain, weakness and stiffness, among other symptoms. Your healthcare professional asks about your medical history and do a complete physical exam. In some cases, syringomyelia might be discovered during a spine MRI or CT scan conducted for other reasons.
If your healthcare professional suspects you may have syringomyelia, you may need to undergo testing. Tests may include:. An MRI scan of the spine and spinal cord is the most reliable tool for diagnosing syringomyelia. An MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of the spine and spinal cord. If a syrinx has developed within the spinal cord, it is visible on the MRI scan.
The MRI might be repeated over time to monitor the progression of syringomyelia.
Syringomyeli
If syringomyelia isn't causing symptoms, it may not need treatment. Your healthcare professional may check it from time to time with MRI and neurological exams. Surgery may be needed if syringomyelia is causing symptoms that get in the way of your life, or if symptoms rapidly worsen. The goal of surgery is to remove the pressure the syrinx places on the spinal cord and to restore the regular flow of cerebrospinal fluid. This can help improve symptoms and nervous system function.
The type of surgery needed depends on the cause of syringomyelia. Surgery doesn't always fix the syrinx. Sometimes the syrinx remains even after efforts to drain the fluid from it. Syringomyelia can come back after surgery. You'll need regular exams with your healthcare team. You might need an MRI now and then to check the outcome of surgery. The syrinx can grow over time and may require more treatment.
Even after treatment, some symptoms of syringomyelia can remain. This is because a syrinx can cause permanent damage to the spinal cord and nerves. Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. A syringomyelia sometimes causes neurological conditions that decrease the ability to move.
For instance, it may cause muscle weakness, pain, fatigue or stiffness. Physical and occupational therapy can help to improve muscle function. A physical therapist can create an exercise program that may help reduce these symptoms. An occupational therapist can teach you how to function better in your daily tasks. Talk to your healthcare team about physical and occupational therapists in your area who have expertise in neurological conditions.
Syringomyelia - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic
If you have chronic pain from syringomyelia, talk to your healthcare team about treatment options. Many medical centers have doctors who specialize in pain management. Living with syringomyelia and its complications can be challenging. Having someone to talk with, whether a friend, counselor or therapist, can be invaluable. Or you might find the support and encouragement you need in a syringomyelia support group. Ask your healthcare professional to recommend a local group or look for groups online.
A support group provides a place for sharing experiences. It also can be a good source of information and offer helpful tips for people with syringomyelia. You're likely to start by seeing your family healthcare professional. You might get a referral to see a neurologist. A neurologist is a doctor trained in brain and nervous system conditions. When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance.
If you have past medical reports, MRI scans or CT scans that might relate to your condition, bring them to your appointment. Take a family member or friend to your appointment, if possible, to help you remember the information you receive. Avoid doing anything that worsens your symptoms.