Ataxia is a degenerative disease of the nervous system affecting balance and coordination, with several types including cerebellar and hereditary forms.
Common symptoms of ataxia include balance difficulties, clumsiness, speech issues, and vision changes, significantly impacting daily life.
Various factors can lead to ataxia, including brain damage, genetic defects, and long-term alcohol use, affecting the cerebellum responsible for balance.
Treatment focuses on improving quality of life through therapies such as speech and occupational therapy, with some advancements in medications for specific types like Friedreich’s ataxia.
For more in-depth information, read the full article on USA Today.