Could really use some advice, insight, or even shared experiences. I’m 20F, have a history of Chiari Malformation Type 1, and I’ve been dealing with a lot of worsening symptoms since late 2024—constant migraines, vertigo, neck pain/stiffness, brain fog, light sensitivity, balance issues, ear pressure, fatigue, and insomnia.

I just got a brain MRI (no contrast, with CSF flow study), and the radiology report came back saying:

• No significant intracranial abnormality
• Normal CSF flow dynamics
• Mildly prominent Virchow-Robin spaces (maybe migraine related)

Here’s the thing: my symptoms are getting worse, not better. I had a massive flare up on Monday (I'm in esthetics school—lots of physical tasks, bending over, cleaning, standing). I ended up sleeping for 16 hours straight.

I’m feeling stuck because the MRI looks “normal,” but my body is telling me something is definitely not normal. I’ve also had a prior CT in 2022. I know static MRIs sometimes don’t capture the full picture, especially for Chiari, but I don’t know where to go from here.

My Questions:

1. Has anyone else had a “normal” MRI but still dealt with serious Chiari or brainstem-related symptoms?
2. Should I ask for an upright MRI or flexion-extension MRI to get a better idea of what’s happening?
3. Any advice on navigating school accommodations while I’m waiting for formal diagnosis papers to arrive? I’m struggling to keep up because of the symptoms, and the school is being difficult.

Any help, shared stories, or advice would be SO appreciated. I just want to get through school safely and figure out how to manage this flare cycle. Thanks in advance! 💜