Signs and Symptoms of Ataxia
Ataxia is a neurological disorder that affects a person's coordination and balance. It can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including genetic disorders, degenerative diseases, or traumatic brain injury. The signs and symptoms of ataxia can vary depending on the underlying cause, but they typically involve difficulty with coordination, balance, and speech.
Coordination Problems
People with ataxia often have difficulty with coordination, such as poor coordination while walking, difficulty with fine motor skills, and difficulty with writing or manipulating objects. They may also have difficulty with balance, such as difficulty standing or maintaining their balance when standing.
Speech and Language Problems
People with ataxia may have difficulty speaking, such as slurred or slow speech, difficulty pronouncing words, and difficulty understanding speech. They may also have difficulty with language, such as difficulty understanding written words or difficulty producing written words.
Sensory Problems
People with ataxia may have difficulty sensing their body's position in space, such as difficulty detecting where their limbs are in relation to the ground or difficulty perceiving where their body is in relation to other objects in the environment. They may also experience difficulty with their sense of touch, such as difficulty feeling when objects are touching their skin.
Other Symptoms
People with ataxia may also experience fatigue, muscle weakness, headaches, nausea, and vertigo. They may also have difficulty with vision, such as blurred or double vision.