Ataxia is a clinical symptom that can be related to a variety of medical conditions, including neurological, degenerative, and metabolic disorders. Ataxia is characterized by a lack of coordination and an inability to maintain balance or accurately control voluntary movements.
The most common disease related to ataxia is multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the protective coating around nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As these nerves are damaged, they are unable to properly transmit signals to the muscles, resulting in ataxia. Other neurological disorders that can cause ataxia include stroke, traumatic brain injury, Huntington’s disease, and cerebral palsy.
Degenerative diseases, such as Friedreich’s ataxia, and genetic diseases, such as spinocerebellar ataxia, can also lead to ataxia. These diseases cause progressive damage to the nervous system, ultimately leading to ataxia.
Metabolic diseases, such as Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, can also lead to ataxia. This syndrome is often caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1) and is most commonly seen in alcoholics.
Finally, ataxia can also be caused by drug toxicity or side effects, including the use of certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and chemotherapy drugs.
No matter what the underlying cause, ataxia can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Treatment for ataxia is typically focused on managing the underlying cause, as well as providing supportive therapies to help improve balance, coordination, and gait.