Syringomyelia: medications, symptoms, etc. & bull; hello healthy

Definition

What is syringomyelia?

Syringomyelia is a cyst that develops. These fluid-filled cysts can grow to expand and extend along the spine. The growing cyst presses and damages the spinal cord tissue.

How common is this disease?

This disease can occur in 8 out of 100,000 people. This condition affects more men than women. On average, it occurs in people aged around 25-40 years. In rare cases, people who have a family suffering from syringomyelia can also develop this disease, aka heredity.

Signs & Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of syringomyelia?

Cyst disorder that develops generally occurs slowly, can be months or even years. Symptoms may also occur some time after an injury to part of your spine.

Usually, the symptoms that appear vary depending on the location where the cyst lump develops. The nerve damage caused by the pressure of these developing cysts will make them lose the ability to use their hands and feet. You will generally also experience back pain, shoulder pain, muscle weakness, stopping muscle growth, and loss of muscle reflexes.

Sometimes people with this condition also lose the ability to feel extreme pain, heat, or cold, especially to feel them in their hands. Other symptoms that may appear are pain and stiffness in the back, shoulders, neck, arms and legs. Digestive problems and bladder problems may also arise.

You can also be prone to tingling in the upper body to the feet. Some of the other symptoms or signs may not be listed above. If you feel some of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.

When to go to the doctor

This disease is a condition that can occur in the long term. Your nerves will be affected and result in loss of bodily functions. Contact your doctor if you experience:

• Muscle weakness, numbness, or loss of ability to feel (touch or temperature).
• Headache, pain, or new symptoms after surgery.

Cause

What causes syringomyelia?

It is not certain how this disease occurs. Basically, syringomyelia occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord) builds up inside the spinal cord and forms a fluid-filled cyst.

Often times this condition is associated with Chiari malformation, where there is brain tissue that presses on the spinal canal. Tumors, injuries, and congenital abnormalities of the spine can also result in syringomyelia. This condition is not really a genetic condition. Although there are, it is very rare to find it because of the condition of the case with a family history.

Risk Factors

What increases the risk of syringomyelia?

Certain factors that may increase your risk of developing this condition are:

• Have a congenital spinal deformity
• Have a spinal tumor or injury
• Have meningitis

Not having the risk factors above does not mean you are free from the risk of syringomyelia. These factors are for reference only. We recommend that you consult with your doctor to get more complete information.

Drugs & Medicines

The information described is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are the treatment options for syringomyelia?

Treatment given for this disease usually depends on the cause of the disorder and condition, age, and symptoms that appear. Generally, surgery is used as a treatment option. Without surgery, syringomyelia often results in progressive weakness of the arms and legs, loss of hand sensation, and chronic weakness and pain. Surgery often helps with nerve problems. If the condition recurs after surgery, other operations may be needed. This operation is not necessarily successful.

People without symptoms may not need treatment. Older people, who cannot tolerate surgery, or whose condition has worsened are better monitored rather than having to undergo surgical procedures.

What are the most common tests for syringomyelia?

The doctor can make a diagnosis from symptoms, a history of medication, and a complete physical examination. In some cases, syringomyelia may be accidentally discovered during an MRI of the spine or computerized tomography (CT) scan for some reason.

If your doctor suspects syringomyelia, you will likely undergo the following tests:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI of the spine is the most reliable method of diagnosing syringomyelia. An MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce clear images of the spine. If a cyst has developed inside the spine, the doctor will be able to see it on an MRI. In some cases, a neurologist will inject a special fluid into a vein from the groin, which flows through the vein to the spine to show a tumor or other abnormality. MRI may be done repeatedly to observe the development of syringomyelia.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan. CT scan using a series X-ray to create a detailed picture of your spine. A CT scan may show that you have a tumor or other spinal condition.

Home Remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can treat syringomyelia?

There are several lifestyle and home precautions you can take to treat this condition. The following lifestyle and home remedies may help treat syringomyelia:

• Note that symptoms may not appear for the first few months or years.
• Avoid physical activity that can strain your spine, such as lifting heavy weights.
• Consider physical therapy for symptom relief.
• Schedule an appointment with your specialist.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.

Hello Health Group does not provide health advice, diagnosis or treatment.