Syringomyelia

To diagnose syringomyelia, your healthcare provider will review your medical history and perform a physical exam focusing on neurological function. They may refer you to a neurologist, a provider who specializes in disorders of the brain and nervous system.

Your provider will likely order imaging tests of your spine or brain. In some cases, healthcare providers discover syringomyelia accidentally on imaging tests that were ordered for another medical reason.

What tests will be done to diagnose this condition?

If your healthcare provider suspects you have syringomyelia, they may recommend one or more of the following tests:

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan: An MRI scan is the most reliable way to diagnose syringomyelia. An MRI takes detailed pictures of structures inside your body using a large magnet and a computer. Using this test, your provider will be able to determine if there’s a syrinx in your spine or another abnormality, such as a tumor. An MRI readily reveals the location, size and extent of the syrinx.
Dynamic MRI: This type of MRI can show the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) around your spinal cord and within the syrinx. It may require a contrast agent, which is injected into one of your veins, to enhance the MRI images.
Myelogram with CT scan: If you’re unable to undergo an MRI, a CT scan is the next choice. A myelogram is a diagnostic imaging test that uses a contrast dye and computed tomography (CT) to look for issues in your spinal canal.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

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