Syringomyelia Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Syringomyelia is a form of disorder that occurs in the central nervous system, namely the spinal cord.
In this condition, a sac forms in the spinal cord which then fills with fluid. Over time, this sac can grow bigger and push the surrounding tissue, including the bone marrow nerves. This condition can cause pain as well as weakness and stiffness in the limbs.
Syringomyelia Symptom
Signs and symptoms of syringomyelia generally appear gradually. The initial symptoms that sufferers usually complain of include:
- muscle weakness
- Decreased reflexes
- Decreased sensitivity to pain and temperature
Over time, other symptoms will appear due to enlargement of the sac. Some of these symptoms include:
- Stiffness in the back, shoulders, arms and legs
- Neck, arm, and back pain
- muscle weakness
- Changes in the shape of the spine (scoliosis)
- Disorders of urination and defecation
Syringomyelia Reason
Syringomyelia can be caused by several things, including:
- Chiari malformation, which is a part of the brain that enters the spinal cord.
- Tumors that cause blockage of the flow of cerebrospinal fluid
- Meningitis which causes inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord
- Trauma or impact on the spinal area
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of syringomyelia is determined on the basis of patient complaints which can be identified from detailed medical interviews. Furthermore, this will be confirmed by the doctor through several additional examinations.
These additional checks include:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is an examination using magnetic waves to see the structure of the bones and surrounding soft tissue. In Syringomyelia, you will be able to see pockets in the spinal cord. Periodic MRI examinations are needed to evaluate the development of the sac and damage to the surrounding tissue that is occupied by the bag.
- Computerized tomography (CT) scans. A CT scan is performed using X-rays to evaluate structural abnormalities of the bones and the marrow in them. Through a CT scan, you can see the formation of pockets and other abnormalities such as tumors.
Syringomyelia Treatment
Not all syringomyelia show symptoms and complaints that interfere with the sufferer’s daily activities. If syringomyelia is found accidentally on an MRI examination and does not show any symptoms, then no special treatment should be given.
For these cases, sufferers are generally advised to carry out periodic checks. The goal is to evaluate the progression of the disease.
If Syringomyelia occurs accompanied by symptoms that make it difficult for sufferers to move, then surgery can be the right treatment. Apart from surgery, a syringomyelia sufferer also requires physiotherapy. Physiotherapy is performed to restore the function of the hands and feet and restore the strength of the muscles that support their movement.
Medical drugs are given based on the complaints experienced by the sufferer. In patients who complain of pain, additional pain medication can be given, the type and dose of the drug will be adjusted to the degree of pain felt.
In addition, during the treatment period, a syringomyelia sufferer is also advised to avoid activities that can exacerbate the condition of the disease. For example, the activity of lifting, pulling or pushing heavy loads.
If not treated promptly, syringomyelia can lead to various complications. Some of them are:
- Spinal deformity or scoliosis
- Difficulty in movement due to muscle stiffness and weakness of the hands and feet
- Chronic pain
Prevention
Preventive measures that can be taken to avoid syringomyelia are to protect the spine while on the move. In addition, it can also be done by exercising regularly.