Cerebellar Ataxia Syndrome - Symptoms

What are the symptoms of cerebellar ataxia syndrome?

Ataxia is a term that means incoordination, unsteadiness or wobbliness. Cerebellar ataxia is ataxia that is caused by problems with the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the area of your brain responsible for coordination and balance.

Common symptoms of cerebellar ataxia syndrome include:

Clumsiness in daily activities
Difficulty speaking or clumsy speech (dysarthria)
Difficulty walking or unsteady gait
Dizziness and headache
Nausea and vomiting
Uncoordinated body movements
Uncoordinated eye movements (nystagmus)

Symptoms that might indicate a serious or life-threatening condition

The sudden appearance of the symptoms of cerebellar ataxia syndrome may be a sign of a serious and even life-threatening condition, including stroke, poisoning, encephalitis, or brain abscess. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have a sudden onset of any of the above symptoms of cerebellar ataxia syndrome.

INTRODUCTION

What is cerebellar ataxia syndrome?

The term cerebellar ataxia syndrome is a description of a set of symptoms rather than a specific diagnosis or disease. Ataxia refers to an unsteadiness of gait or lack of muscle coordination. Cerebellar refers to the part of the brain called the cerebellum. The cerebellum is located inside the back and base of the skull, just above the top of the spinal cord. It processes input from... Read more about cerebellar ataxia syndrome introduction

CAUSES

What causes cerebellar ataxia syndrome?

Cerebellar ataxia syndrome is caused by damage to or problems with the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of your brain that is responsible for coordination and balance. A wide variety of diseases, disorders and conditions can lead to problems with the cerebellum and cause ataxia.... Read more about cerebellar ataxia syndrome causes

TREATMENTS

How is cerebellar ataxia syndrome treated?

Treatment of cerebellar ataxia syndrome varies depending on the cause, severity, and other factors. Cerebellar ataxia caused by viral infections will often go away on its own within a few months. Treating the underlying cause, if one is identified, can help improve problems with balance and coordination. Otherwise, treatment is supportive and is aimed at managing your symptoms and assisting with activities of daily life.... Read more about cerebellar ataxia syndrome treatments