Friedrich's ataxia
Visit your GP if you or your child have unexplained symptoms such as balance and co-ordination problems or difficultywalking, talking or swallowing.
Your GP may ask whether you have any family history of ataxia. They will also want to know about the progression of your symptoms. They might carry out a simple assessment of your balance, walking and co-ordination.
Your GP may also ask how much alcohol you drink and whether you're taking any form of medication. This is because excessive drinking and certain medications can cause ataxia-like symptoms in some people.
You may be referredfor a series of tests to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, such as an infection. The tests will probably include blood and urine tests.
If your symptoms suggest you may have acquired ataxia because ofa serious underlying condition, it's likely you'll be admitted immediately to your nearest hospital.
Otherwise, you'll be referred to a neurologist (a specialist inbrain and nervous system conditions)for further testing or, in the case of children, a paediatrician. Some of the tests you may have are described below.
Genetic testing involves taking a sample of blood and testingthe DNA in it for any genetic mutation known to cause ataxia.
Currently, tests can detect the mutations responsible for Friedreich's ataxia, ataxia-telangiectasia and most of the spinocerebellar ataxias.
Brainscans can be used to check forphysical abnormalities in the brain that could be caused by certain types of hereditary ataxia. They can also be used to check for other problems that may affect your brain, such as a Brain tumours .
The two most widely used brain imaging scans are:
Some of the other tests you may have to help diagnose ataxia and determine how severe it is can include:
Ataxia is the term for a group of disorders that affect co-ordination, balance and speech. Find out about the main types, what causes them, and how they're treated.
Read about some of the main types of ataxia, including when they develop and what the outlook is.
Read about the main causes of ataxia, including how some types are passed on to a child by their parents.
Read about the tests and examinations you may need for your doctor to diagnose ataxia and determine which form of the condition you have.
Read about the treatments, support and care available for people with different types of ataxia.