Syringomyelia Awareness Month is observed throughout May, dedicated to shedding light on this complex neurological disorder. Participate by sharing educational resources, supporting research initiatives, and advocating for those affected by syringomyelia.
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Expected Syringomyelia Awareness Month Deals
Throughout May, Syringomyelia Awareness Month focuses on fundraising and educational campaigns rather than commercial deals. Organizations like the American Syringomyelia & Chiari Alliance Project (ASAP) and Conquer Chiari lead efforts to collect donations for research and patient support programs. Many medical device companies, such as Medtronic and Boston Scientific, may highlight their support for neurological research or offer educational materials. Look for opportunities to donate at checkout from health-focused retailers or participate in virtual walks and online advocacy drives. We will update this page with confirmed live campaigns as May approaches.
Platform Guide for Syringomyelia Awareness Month
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #SyringomyeliaAwareness. Share infographics, patient stories, and research updates to educate your followers visually.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #SyringomyeliaAwareness. Participate in live chats, share breaking research news, and amplify advocacy calls to action.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #SyringomyeliaAwareness. Join support groups, share personal experiences, and promote virtual events within community pages.
Syringomyelia Awareness Month Hero
Dr. William James Gardner
History of Syringomyelia Awareness Month
As far back as the 16th century, physicians had observed the presence of cavities within the spinal cords of cadavers. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that several European doctors began investigating this strange condition. Dr. Hans Chiari, an Austrian pathologist, was one of the leading minds in this movement. His studies on malformation of the brain stem and cerebellum led to a deeper understanding of syringomyelia. Like many other doctors at the time, his observations came from the study of cadavers during post-mortems. Chiari noted that malformations in the spinal cord were the primary cause of syringomyelia.
These malformations, called ‘Chiari malformations,’ were categorized in order of severity. Chiari observed that these malformations were an extension of brain tissue. It goes through the hole at the base of the skull and into the spinal canal, obstructing the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and causing a build-up of cysts. His findings are still used by doctors today. We now know that roughly 90% of syringomyelia cases are a result of Chiari malformations.
The development of magnetic resonance imaging (M.R.I.) technology in the 20th century was a game-changer for the diagnosis of syringomyelia. They used radio waves and a strong magnetic field to generate detailed images of the spinal cord. Doctors now view syrinxes in real-time, monitoring their growth and pinpointing the precise location. All while keeping track of their progression. Though syringomyelia has no cure, modern medicine has advanced enough that there are methods of treatment to help manage the condition, like surgical procedures. During Syringomyelia Awareness Month, we reflect on this long road of discovery, research, and innovation. We also recognize those who have this rare but serious disorder.
Syringomyelia Awareness Month timeline
Johann Conrad Brunner accidentally discovers a liquid-filled cavity inside the spinal cord of an infant with hydrocephalus.
Charles-Prosper Olivier d'Angers coins the term ‘syringomyelia’ to describe the presence of a cavity in the spinal cord.
German doctors Otto von Kahler and Friedrich Schultze document the clinical syndrome by the presence of an abnormal cavity in the spine, distinct from those found in the spinal cords of healthy adults.
Gardner postulates that the cause of syringomyelia is a difference in spinal fluid pressures, which lead to cavities filling up with fluid inside the spine.
Syringomyelia Awareness Month FAQs
When is Syringomyelia Awareness Month?
In 2027, Syringomyelia Awareness Month will again be observed throughout May, providing a full 31 days for communities to unite in supporting research and patient care.
How many people are affected by Syringomyelia?
Estimates suggest that around 40,000 to 80,000 individuals in the United States may be living with syringomyelia, highlighting the need for continued research and support.
What causes Syringomyelia?
While often associated with Chiari malformation, syringomyelia can also develop as a complication of meningitis, hemorrhage, or arachnoiditis, disrupting cerebrospinal fluid flow.
What is the difference between Syringomyelia and Chiari Malformation?
Essentially, Chiari malformation is often the underlying cause that impedes the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, leading to the formation of a syrinx. While distinct, they are frequently co-occurring conditions, with Chiari being a primary driver for many syringomyelia cases.
How to Observe Syringomyelia Awareness Month
Get the word out
You can help raise awareness too. Spread the word about syringomyelia. You can pass out fliers, make ribbons or just discuss it with others. The more people know about it the better.
Buy some merchandise
Every movement needs a symbol. Buying a t-shirt or ribbon that talks about syringomyelia can help raise awareness. As a bonus, the funds go towards the research and treatment of syringomyelia.
Volunteer with a support group
There are many support groups for people with syringomyelia. You can start by looking for them online. Contact them and let them know you’d like to get involved in any way possible. These organizations are happy to get help from those who want to learn more about syringomyelia.
5 Important Facts About Syringomyelia
Syringomyelia affects animals too
Canines like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel also get affected by syringomyelia.
Prevalence of Syringomyelia
Approximately eight out of every 100,000 people have this condition.
It affects men disproportionately
For unknown reasons, syringomyelia impacts men more than women.
The onset age
People with syringomyelia develop symptoms between 25 and 40, and the average age of onset is 30.
Meningitis may cause Syringomyelia
Meningitis causes inflammation of the spinal cord membrane, which can lead to acquired syringomyelia.
Why Syringomyelia Awareness Month is Important
It brings attention to a rare disorder
Syringomyelia is a rare condition, one with symptoms that mimic many other illnesses. As such not many people know about it. During this period of awareness, health workers and patients with syringomyelia can bring attention to the disease, educating others on its causes and symptoms.
Much needed support
It’s easy for someone battling a serious neurological disorder to feel alone, especially when that disorder isn’t as well known as other conditions. On Syringomyelia Awareness Month, affected people get some much-needed emotional support and attention.
It promotes better policies and treatment
During this period of awareness, affected people have the opportunity to push for policies and treatment for syringomyelia. Organizations concerned with this disorder can come together and rally support for their initiatives, which improve things for those who have syringomyelia.
Social Media Tips for Syringomyelia Awareness Month
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