Ataxia is a degenerative neurological disorder that affects the body’s ability to coordinate movement and balance. It is characterized by a lack of coordination of voluntary movements, such as walking, talking, and swallowing. The exact cause of ataxia is unknown, and it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The age of diagnosis of ataxia can vary greatly, depending on the type and severity of the disorder.
Infantile ataxia is diagnosed in infancy, usually between the ages of 2 and 4 months. This type of ataxia is usually caused by a genetic defect and affects the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. Symptoms in infants include poor coordination, slow or uncoordinated movements, and difficulty sucking or swallowing.
Late-onset ataxia is usually diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 20. It can be caused by a genetic mutation or acquired through environmental factors, such as head trauma, stroke, or infections. Symptoms of late-onset ataxia include difficulty walking, speaking, and swallowing, as well as poor balance and coordination.
Adult-onset ataxia is usually diagnosed after the age of 20. It can be caused by a genetic defect or acquired through environmental factors, such as head trauma, stroke, or infections. Symptoms of adult-onset ataxia include difficulty walking, speaking, and swallowing, as well as poor balance and coordination.
In summary, the age of diagnosis of ataxia can vary greatly, depending on the type and severity of the disorder. Infantile ataxia is usually diagnosed in infancy, between the ages of 2 and 4 months. Late-onset ataxia is usually diagnosed between the ages of 10 and 20, and adult-onset ataxia is usually diagnosed after the age of 20.