SYMPTOMS
- Degeneration or atrophy of cells in cerebellum. (atrophy: partial or complete wasting away of the body)
- Unsteadily walking and lack of balance
- Progressive incoordination of fingers, hands, arms, speech and eye movements.
- Retains full mental capacity but progressively loses physical control.

CAUSES FOR ATAXIA
Hereditary Ataxia
- Most ataxias are hereditary and they are classified by chromosomal location and pattern of inheritance:
-----*Autosomal dominant; in which the affected person inherits a normal gene from one parent and a faulty gene from the other.
-----*Autosomal recessive; in which both parents pass on a copy of the faulty gene.

- Males transmit the gene to all daughters. Thus, the inheritance pattern goes:
-----*Grandfather --> Daughter --> Male children
- Female carriers have 50% of transmitting the gene to each child (male or female).

Aquired Ataxia
- Ataxia can also be aquired. Conditions that can cause ataxia include:
-----*Stroke, multiple sclerosis, tumors, alcoholism, peripheral neuropathy, metabolic disorders and vitamin deficiencies.

TREATMENT
- Mostly involves the use of adaptive devices to allow the patient to maintain as much independance as possible. Such devices include:
-----*A cane, crutches, walkers and wheelchairs.
-----*Devices to assist with writing, feeding, and self-care if hand and arm coordination is impaired.
-----*Communication devices for those with impaired speech.
- Medications or other therapies might be appropriate for symptoms like tremor, stiffness, depression, spasm, and sleep disorders amongst others.
- Ataxia caused by metabolic disorder may be treated with medications and controlled diet. Vitamin deficiency is treated with vitamin therapy.
- A variety of drugs may be used to treat swallowing disorders.
- Physical therapy can strengthen muscles.

RECOVERY AND REHABILITATION
- Researchers assume that physical therapy does not slow the progression of loss of coordination. However, patients are encouraged to remain as active as possible.
- Occupational therapy can be helpful in developing ways for the patient to perform daily activities.
- Walkers and other devices can assist in allow the patient to have mobility. Other modifications such as ramps for a wheelchair, heavy eating utensils, and raised toilet seats can make patients more independent.
- Speech therapy and computer-based communication aids often help as the person loses his or her ability to speak.