Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or your doctor might refer you to a doctor trained in brain and nervous system conditions (neurologist).

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet. If you have past medical reports, MRI scans or CT scans that might relate to your problem, bring them to your appointment.

Take a family member or friend to your appointment, if possible, to help you remember the information you'll be given.

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms and when they began
• Key personal information, including spinal or back surgeries or injuries you've had and family history of syringomyelia
• All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including doses
• Questions to ask your doctor.

For syringomyelia, questions to ask your doctor include:

• What is likely causing my symptoms or condition?
• Are there other possible causes?
• Is it possible my symptoms will get better on their own?
• What tests do I need?
• What is the best course of action?
• Can exercise help?
• I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I may have? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, including:

• Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?

What you can do in the meantime

Avoid doing anything that worsens your symptoms. For many people with syringomyelia, heavy lifting and straining can trigger symptoms, so avoid these activities. Also, avoid flexing your neck.