Raising Awareness: Syringomyelia

Syringomyelia is a condition in which a cyst forms within the spinal cord, usually associated with a Chiari malformation, sometimes associated with trauma, sometimes occurring for no apparent reason at all (idiopathic). It is a normally progressive degenerative disorder causing pain and/or weakness in the extremities, headaches, sexual dysfunction, or loss of bowel or bladder control among other symptoms.

This is considered a "rare" condition, and doctors in general seem rather uneducated about it, its causes, effects, and course.

If you or someone you love suffers from this debilitating condition and you need more information, please visit the American Syringomyelia Alliance Project. If you have questions and want answers or just need a shoulder to lean on, there are numerous fine people you can connect with on the message boards.

Please help us find a cure.