Ataxia (loss of coordination)

Overview

Sudden ataxia can be a stroke. Slow ataxia can come from alcohol, vitamin shortages, MS, or inherited conditions.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Unsteady walking
• Trouble with balance or walking

Less common

• Slurred speech
• Trouble with fine hand tasks

When to get medical care

Causes

Stroke, alcohol, genes, vitamins.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Physical therapy
• Fall-proof home
• Use a walker or cane

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Limit alcohol

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Heavy drinkers: Higher risk.
• Older adults: Higher fall risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Some causes are treatable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Should my vitamin levels be checked?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Ataxia (loss of coordination)