Most people with Chiari malformations do not present any signs or symptoms. Signs and symptoms of Chiari malformation are noted during late childhood or adulthood.

Symptoms are related to:

• Increased pressure on the brain
• Displacement of a part of the cerebellum into the upper portion of spinal canal
• Improper flow of the cerebrospinal fluid across the brain and spinal cord
• Build-up of the cerebrospinal fluid in the brain or spinal cord

Commonly noted symptoms include:

• Severe headache, especially following a cough or sneeze
• Neck pain
• Problems with balance
• Poor hand coordination
• Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
• Dizziness
• Problems with swallowing, often accompanied by choking and vomiting
• Vision and speech Problems
• Tinnitus or ringing or buzzing in the ears
• Scoliosis or curvature of the spine
• Insomnia or sleeplessness
• Depression

If untreated for a prolonged period it may lead to

• Hydrocephalus or build-up of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
• Spina bifida, a condition where the covering on the spinal cord is not fully developed.
• Syringomyelia, a condition where a cavity or cyst develops within the spinal column.
• Tethered cord syndrome, a condition where the spinal cord attaches to the back bone.