I have a Chiari Malformation I, which until the last few years didn't really affect me. But about 6 years ago it started getting worse. Now it affects everything - my heart, my breathing, my sleeping, my eyesight, headaches, ears constantly ringing.
The only cure is surgery, but I don't even have a job because I can't work with all of the problems caused by this. I can't find a doctor who will see me without insurance and without employment other than urgent care facilities and they are not able to diagnose or treat this condition. It also feels pointless to try to find a doctor to tell me what the neurologist told me 10 years ago...the only treatment is surgery and even that has no guarantee of doing more than relieving the pressure on the brain for a while but it could return.
Does anyone have experience with CMI and if so, what was your process for moving forward?
Hello! I'm so sorry to hear about this. Unfortunately, many disability applicants also cannot afford to see a doctor or have health insurance. If this is the case, it's possible to seek care at a free clinic or a hospital ER. Or, if your income and assets are low enough, you may qualify for Medicaid. Since CMI has no official Blue Book listing, I would suggest looking at the SSA's website for their qualifications with a neurological disorder.
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