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Cerebellar Ataxia (Balance Disorder)

Loss of coordination and balance occurring with involvement of the cerebellum or its associated pathways.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Cerebellar Ataxia (Balance Disorder)?

Ataxia is a balance and coordination disorder that arises from damage to the cerebellum or to/from its pathways. Wide-based, staggering gait is the most prominent finding.

Causes include hereditary ataxias (Friedreich's ataxia, spinocerebellar ataxia), vascular causes, multiple sclerosis, toxic causes (alcohol, phenytoin) and paraneoplastic syndromes.

In acute ataxia, emergency causes such as stroke, infection and toxicity must first be excluded. In chronic progressive ataxia, genetic tests and metabolic screening are performed.

Symptoms

Wide-based, staggering gait
Tremor and missing the target when reaching
Explosive speech (dysarthria)
Eye movement tremor (nystagmus)
Deterioration in handwriting
Tendency to fall

Risk Factors

Family history of ataxia (hereditary forms)
Chronic alcohol use
Vitamin E or B12 deficiency
Autoimmune or paraneoplastic disease
Risk of brainstem or cerebellar stroke

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden onset balance loss or walking difficulty
  • If speech disturbance and double vision accompany
  • If there is a family history of progressive ataxia
  • If existing symptoms gradually worsen

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment of the underlying cause (vitamin replacement, immune therapy)
02
Corticosteroids or immunomodulatory therapy in autoimmune ataxia
03
Balance and coordination exercises with physiotherapy
04
Assistive devices (cane, walker)
05
Genetic counseling in hereditary forms

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.