Symptoms

Syringomyelia symptoms usually develop slowly over time. If your syringomyelia is caused by protrusion of brain tissue into your spinal canal (Chiari malformation), symptoms generally begin between ages 25 and 40.

In some cases, coughing or straining can trigger symptoms of syringomyelia, although neither causes syringomyelia.

Signs and symptoms of syringomyelia, which might affect your back, shoulders, arms or legs, can include:

• Muscle weakness and wasting (atrophy)
• Loss of reflexes
• Loss of sensitivity to pain and temperature
• Headaches
• Stiffness in your back, shoulders, arms and legs
• Pain in your neck, arms and back
• Spinal curvature (scoliosis)

When to see a doctor

If you have any of the signs or symptoms associated with syringomyelia, see your doctor.

If you've had a spinal cord injury, watch for signs and symptoms of syringomyelia. Months to years can pass after an injury before syringomyelia develops. Make sure your doctor knows you had a spinal cord injury.