I have EDS and was just diagnosed with Chiari, is this related to EDS?

There are many Chiari patients, who also have EDS. An added caution is needed due to the diagnosis of EDS. Chiari typically is treated in one of two ways: Drug management and/or surgery. With EDS, the surgical protocol must be altered to protect connective tissue and deal with arachnoid scarring or adhesions; also prevent cranial-cervical instability. The surgical techniques are different, too: designed to protect fragile tissues and prevent or minimize bleeding; and post operatively, there's more emphasis on preventing or fixing would dehiscence. Seek out and consult with Chiari-experts before undergoing any treatment or surgery. It's generally not an emergency, unless you have any of the three red flag symptoms: choking, breathing problems or drop attacks. Those indicate more severe brainstem involvement, don't delay in seeking treatment for them. (Grubb 2002 - Rowe er.al 1999)