1. Look for Changes in Balance and Coordination
While ataxia can be caused by such conditions as alcoholism, multiple sclerosis, head injuries and stroke, the most common cause of this neurological condition is heredity. Ataxia is a recessive trait, and the onset of symptoms usually emerges in early adulthood. The beginning stages of ataxia usually affect balance and coordination, with sufferers experiencing difficulties in the movements of hands, arms and legs. Individuals experiencing the onset of ataxia may simply claim, "I'm going through a clumsy stage," or may have problems with maintaining balance and equilibrium.
2. Pay Attention to Less Obvious Symptoms
Other symptoms of ataxia may be slightly more subtle and difficult to diagnose, especially in cases of sporadic ataxia (a less common version that is not caused by genetics). Some ataxia sufferers may start to slur their words or exhibit slow or lazy eye movements, especially blinking. Some of these symptoms are often mistaken for alcohol intoxication, which may make diagnosis of ataxia more difficult. The fact that alcoholism may be a cause for some types of ataxia may complicate matters as well. Ataxia can be an important component of dementia as well, since it can cause lesions to the cerebellum.
3. Be Aware of More Severe Symptoms in Advanced Cases
Ataxia can evolve into a very serious or even deadly neurological condition. It's important to observe and react to the more severe symptoms such as respiratory distress and cardiac failure. Ataxia affects muscle response, and advanced cases will aggravate the muscles that control breathing. Weaker patients may actually suffocate while lying on their backs if they are not properly supervised. In addition, the heart is a muscle and can be directly affected by ataxia, causing a multitude of cardiopulmonary and circulatory system failures.
It's important to seek medical help as soon as your spot symptoms of ataxia. In many cases, ataxia can be merely a symptom of a much more serious medical condition, such as a stroke or multiple sclerosis.
