I put together an educational document about ataxia. Hope you find it useful in explaining what ataxia is. Sept. 25th is International Ataxia Day. Passing on a bit of information to someone who doesn’t know what ataxia is, is helping to educate the world about this disorder. Thanks, Mary
WHAT IS ATAXIA?
• ATAXIA is derived from the Greek word ataxis which means “without order.”
• Ataxia is …. A term used to describe a group of neurological disorders that cause problems with balance and coordinated movement.
• Ataxia also causes symptoms that affect: vision, swallowing, and speech.
• Ataxia is most often caused by loss of function in the cerebellum. (the part of the brain that controls movement)
• Ataxia symptoms can be similar to: *being drunk can cause symptoms of ataxia or *spinning around and around like children do, can cause ataxia symptoms.
• Ataxia can strike at any age. (too often, children and young adults)
• Ataxia – There are three classifications: Acquired, Hereditary, and Sporadic.
• 1) Acquired Ataxia is …. There was an event that caused the person to have the symptom of ataxia. Some examples include: head trauma, stroke, brain tumor, severe viral infection, and exposure to certain drugs or toxins.
• 2) Hereditary Ataxia is …. When there is a gene defect or mutation. This type of ataxia is divided into two groups: Dominant and Recessive. (there are a lot more detailed definitions for these two ataxias, but I’m only giving you the very basic ones here)
• Dominant Ataxia is …. When only one of the parents has the effected gene and it’s passed on.
• Recessive Ataxia is …. When both parents have the gene and it’s passed on.
• 3) Sporadic Ataxia is …. When the cause is unknown and there is no family history.
• *Most of the ataxias are progressive. (symptoms increase in scope and severity)
• *The rate of progression varies for each type of ataxia. It can also very between family members with the same type of ataxia.
• *Too often the earlier the onset of symptoms, the faster the rate of progression.
• Currently there is no cure for ataxia. (some of the acquired forms have been treated)
• There are no medications which treat or slow the progression of ataxia. (there are some medications which may help some of the symptoms of ataxia)
• Despite this a person with ataxia can: exercise and cultivate a caring network with family, friends, support groups, social media and advocacy organizations to gain knowledge, resources, and a sense of belonging.
• If you want to learn more about our journey you can reach out to the National Ataxia Foundation.
• Thank You and pass the word on about ataxia.
