10 Key Signs That Could Indicate Chiari Malformation: Decoding the Clues

3. Issues Breathing

Chiari malformation occurs when parts of an individual's brain protrude down into their central spinal canal. Breathing requires the cooperation of several parts of an individual's brain. The brainstem and cerebellum both play critical roles in the autonomous part of breathing. The pons is responsible for bridging the various parts of the brain that control several vital functions. The lower sections of an individual's pons are responsible for regulating breathing intensity. The upper sections of the pons regulate the frequency and depth of an individual's breaths. The medulla, which is part of the hindbrain, manages the involuntary part of breathing. When Chiari malformation causes any of these parts of the brain to become compressed, individuals will experience breathing problems.