Ataxia Overview
Ataxia refers to a lack of muscle coordination that affects a person’s ability to walk, speak, swallow, and control eye or hand movements. It is not a disease itself but a symptom of underlying neurological conditions that affect the part of the brain called the cerebellum, or its connecting nerves.
Ataxia may develop suddenly due to trauma or stroke, or progress gradually in inherited disorders. It can affect people of all ages and may be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause.
Common symptoms include:
- Unsteady walk and frequent falls
- Poor coordination of arms and hands
- Slurred or slow speech
- Tremors
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks (e.g. buttoning clothes)
- Involuntary eye movements (nystagmus)
There are several types, including hereditary, acquired, and idiopathic (unknown cause). Diagnosis and management depend on identifying the specific type and underlying cause.
In South Africa, awareness of this disorder is growing, but access to specialist care can vary across regions.
👉 [Next: Causes and Types of Ataxia]
