Chiari Malformation Type I (CM) is a neurological disorder where part of the brain, the cerebellum (or more specifically the cerebellar tonsils), descends out of the skull into the spinal area. This results in compression of parts of the brain and spinal cord, and disrupts the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (a clear fluid which bathes the brain and spinal cord). There are actually different types of Chiari. Type 2 is more severe with more of the brain coming out of the skull, and is often associated with spina bifida.
There are many symptoms that come along with Chiari. The biggest and main symptom is headaches usually brought on or made worse by coughing or sneezing. Other symptoms include neck pain, respiratory problems, sleep apnea, loss of fine motor control, balance problems, muscle pain and weakness and numbness. This is just the beginning of a long list.