{"id":10038,"date":"2019-05-10T17:45:20","date_gmt":"2019-05-10T17:45:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/?page_id=10038"},"modified":"2025-08-15T14:17:53","modified_gmt":"2025-08-15T19:17:53","slug":"what-is-ataxia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/what-is-ataxia\/","title":{"rendered":"What is Ataxia?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"10038\" class=\"elementor elementor-10038\" data-elementor-post-type=\"page\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-a8f9a62 elementor-section-full_width elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"a8f9a62\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-no\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-7585f38\" data-id=\"7585f38\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-8155d7c\" data-id=\"8155d7c\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-162b6b0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"162b6b0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-xl\">What is Ataxia?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4e2e27b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"4e2e27b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-medium\">Serving the Ataxia community since 1957.<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-0e5c555 elementor-hidden-mobile elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"0e5c555\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-2edbefa\" data-id=\"2edbefa\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6b8f649 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6b8f649\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><a style=\"color: #ffffff;\" href=\"#ataxiaSymptoms\"><strong>SYMPTOMS<\/strong><\/a><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-286102d\" data-id=\"286102d\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-25976ec elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"25976ec\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"#ataxiaDiagnosis\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>DIAGNOSIS<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1b71bc2\" data-id=\"1b71bc2\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-64c460b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"64c460b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"#ataxiaTreatment\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>TREATMENT<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-7c1ec20\" data-id=\"7c1ec20\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4e980aa elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4e980aa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"#typesOfAtaxia\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>CAUSES OF ATAXIA<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-9e73ab5\" data-id=\"9e73ab5\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3396cbc elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3396cbc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"#moreAtaxiaInformation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>MORE INFO<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-6d7e8f8\" data-id=\"6d7e8f8\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e69acb7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e69acb7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/pipeline\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>RESEARCH PIPELINE<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-14 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-335e4f7\" data-id=\"335e4f7\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bacd72d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bacd72d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ataxia.org\/neurologists-and-specialty-clinics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"color: #ffffff;\"><b>FIND CARE<\/b><\/span><\/a><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-084d84d elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"084d84d\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-3df390d\" data-id=\"3df390d\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6a9b752 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"6a9b752\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ccaf827 elementor-hidden-phone elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"ccaf827\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;sticky&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;sticky_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;],&quot;sticky_offset&quot;:60,&quot;sticky_parent&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;sticky_effects_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_anchor_link_offset&quot;:0}\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Quick Links<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a184566 elementor-nav-menu__align-start elementor-nav-menu--dropdown-mobile elementor-hidden-phone elementor-nav-menu__text-align-aside elementor-widget elementor-widget-nav-menu\" data-id=\"a184566\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;layout&quot;:&quot;vertical&quot;,&quot;sticky&quot;:&quot;top&quot;,&quot;sticky_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;],&quot;sticky_offset&quot;:107,&quot;sticky_parent&quot;:&quot;yes&quot;,&quot;submenu_icon&quot;:{&quot;value&quot;:&quot;&lt;svg aria-hidden=\\&quot;true\\&quot; class=\\&quot;e-font-icon-svg e-fas-caret-down\\&quot; viewBox=\\&quot;0 0 320 512\\&quot; xmlns=\\&quot;http:\\\/\\\/www.w3.org\\\/2000\\\/svg\\&quot;&gt;&lt;path d=\\&quot;M31.3 192h257.3c17.8 0 26.7 21.5 14.1 34.1L174.1 354.8c-7.8 7.8-20.5 7.8-28.3 0L17.2 226.1C4.6 213.5 13.5 192 31.3 192z\\&quot;&gt;&lt;\\\/path&gt;&lt;\\\/svg&gt;&quot;,&quot;library&quot;:&quot;fa-solid&quot;},&quot;sticky_effects_offset&quot;:0,&quot;sticky_anchor_link_offset&quot;:0}\" data-widget_type=\"nav-menu.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<nav aria-label=\"Menu\" class=\"elementor-nav-menu--main elementor-nav-menu__container elementor-nav-menu--layout-vertical e--pointer-underline e--animation-fade\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul id=\"menu-1-a184566\" class=\"elementor-nav-menu sm-vertical\"><li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10083\"><a href=\"#whatIsAtaxia\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\">What is Ataxia<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10084\"><a href=\"#ataxiaSymptoms\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\">Ataxia Symptoms<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10086\"><a href=\"#ataxiaDiagnosis\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\">Ataxia Diagnosis<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10085\"><a href=\"#ataxiaTreatment\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\">Ataxia Treatment<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10089\"><a href=\"#typesOfAtaxia\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\">Causes of Ataxia<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10091\"><a href=\"#moreAtaxiaInformation\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\">More Information<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\t\t\t<\/nav>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<nav class=\"elementor-nav-menu--dropdown elementor-nav-menu__container\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul id=\"menu-2-a184566\" class=\"elementor-nav-menu sm-vertical\"><li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10083\"><a href=\"#whatIsAtaxia\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\" tabindex=\"-1\">What is Ataxia<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10084\"><a href=\"#ataxiaSymptoms\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\" tabindex=\"-1\">Ataxia Symptoms<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10086\"><a href=\"#ataxiaDiagnosis\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\" tabindex=\"-1\">Ataxia Diagnosis<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10085\"><a href=\"#ataxiaTreatment\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\" tabindex=\"-1\">Ataxia Treatment<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10089\"><a href=\"#typesOfAtaxia\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\" tabindex=\"-1\">Causes of Ataxia<\/a><\/li>\n<li class=\"menu-item menu-item-type-custom menu-item-object-custom menu-item-10091\"><a href=\"#moreAtaxiaInformation\" class=\"elementor-item elementor-item-anchor\" tabindex=\"-1\">More Information<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\t\t\t<\/nav>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-50 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-42e5250\" data-id=\"42e5250\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9fdf9f2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"9fdf9f2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f89c91e elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"f89c91e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"whatIsAtaxia\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-22abcd0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"22abcd0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Ataxia is a rare neurological disease. <br \/>It is progressive \u2013 affecting a person\u2019s ability to walk, talk, and use fine motor skills.<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e124018 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"e124018\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-xxl\">What is Ataxia?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8e3cb2c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8e3cb2c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Ataxia is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. Many symptoms of Ataxia mimic those of being drunk, such as slurred speech, stumbling, falling, and incoordination. These symptoms are caused by damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain that is responsible for coordinating movement. Ataxia treatment involves a combination of medication to treat symptoms and therapy to improve quality of life, but there is no <a style=\"color: var( --e-global-color-text );\" href=\"https:\/\/www.replicamagic.io\/\">magic<\/a> cure for the disease.<\/p><p>People affected by Ataxia may experience problems with using their fingers and hands, arms, legs, walking, speaking or moving their eyes. Ataxia affects people of all ages. Age of symptom-onset can vary widely, from childhood to late-adulthood. Complications from the disease are serious and oftentimes debilitating. Some types of Ataxia can lead to an early death.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2954b98 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2954b98\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Symptoms<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-47aecac elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"47aecac\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"ataxiaSymptoms\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-735f784 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"735f784\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-66 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-1f8a5c4\" data-id=\"1f8a5c4\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-25aea72 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"25aea72\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Ataxia symptoms vary by person and type of Ataxia. Rate of progression varies as well. Symptoms may worsen slowly, over decades \u2013 or quickly, over mere months. Common symptoms of Ataxia are:<\/p><ul><li>Lack of coordination<\/li><li>Slurred speech<\/li><li>Trouble eating and swallowing<\/li><li>Deterioration of fine motor skills<\/li><li>Difficulty walking<\/li><li>Gait abnormalities<\/li><li>Eye movement abnormalities<\/li><li>Tremors<\/li><li>Heart problems<\/li><li><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Vision-Fact-Sheet.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Vision changes<\/a><\/span><\/li><\/ul><p>Individuals with Ataxia often require the use of wheelchairs, walkers, and\/or scooters to aid in their mobility.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-af848b8\" data-id=\"af848b8\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0ec3005 show-popup elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"0ec3005\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/symptoms-853x1024.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-10059\" alt=\"Lack of Coordination infographic\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/symptoms-853x1024.jpg 853w, https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/symptoms-250x300.jpg 250w, https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/symptoms-768x922.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/symptoms.jpg 1097w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3b4a6cd elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"3b4a6cd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/fact-sheets\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Printable Ataxia Fact Sheets<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ecf3a06 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"ecf3a06\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7b662d1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7b662d1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Between 15,000 \u2013 20,000 people are estimated to have Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) in the US.\n <br \/><br>Tens of thousands more are affected by recessive, sporadic, and as yet unknown forms of Ataxia.<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-662a885 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"662a885\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0508e5c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"0508e5c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Diagnosis<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d796156 elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"d796156\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"ataxiaDiagnosis\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5e99e79 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5e99e79\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Ataxia is diagnosed using a combination of strategies that may include medical history, family history, and a complete neurological evaluation. Various blood tests may be performed to rule out other disorders. Genetic blood tests are available for many types of hereditary Ataxia.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2957c0b elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"2957c0b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/ataxia-genetic-test-options\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Ataxia Genetic Test Options<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-64731b8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"64731b8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-396a966 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"396a966\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Tips to Prepare for A Doctor&#8217;s Appointment<\/h3><p>Taking an active role and advocating for patient needs is important when seeking an Ataxia diagnosis. Begin with a discussion with a primary care physician. However, some physicians may not be familiar with Ataxia because it is a rare disease. If Ataxia is suspected, the primary care physician will likely make a referral to a neurologist. Neurologists will have the expertise needed to confirm a diagnosis and determine the type of Ataxia. NAF maintains a\u00a0list of neurologists\u00a0that are familiar with Ataxia. This list is a good starting place to look for neurologists that have experience working with Ataxia patients. Gather the following information before a neurologist appointment:<\/p><ul><li>List of general health exams and current medications<\/li><li>Record of any medical test results, including MRI and CT scans of the brain<\/li><li>Reports of any genetic testing that has been done<\/li><li>Information about medical conditions that exist in the biological family (grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, and cousins)<\/li><li>Information about when symptoms were first noticed, how they&#8217;ve changed, which activities are difficult because of symptoms, and what makes symptoms better or worse<\/li><li>List of questions and concerns<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d682d42 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"d682d42\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/neurologists-and-specialty-clinics\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Find a Neurologist<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-537067a elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"537067a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4e953d8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"4e953d8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"ataxiaNewDiagnosis\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-13fa763 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"13fa763\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Newly Diagnosed with Ataxia<\/h3><p>Receiving a diagnosis of Ataxia can be overwhelming. It might feel like there is nothing you can do &#8211; but there is! We have resources to get you started on your journey. Learn, join the network of support, and get involved in making a difference. Here are some things that you can do:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Become a FREE member and sign up for NAF emails<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/interland3.donorperfect.net\/weblink\/weblink.aspx?name=E79738&amp;id=280\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Join now<\/a><br \/>NAF is the largest Ataxia-focused nonprofit organization in the US. Our mission is to accelerate the development of treatments and a cure while working to improve the lives of those living with Ataxia.<\/li><li><strong>Follow NAF on social media<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/ataxiafoundation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Facebook<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ataxiafoundation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Instagram<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/NAF_Ataxia\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Twitter<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/NatlAtaxiaFound\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">YouTube<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/nationalataxiafoundation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">LinkedIn<\/a><br \/>Stay up to date with the latest news, connect with the Ataxia community of Ataxia patients and family members.<\/li><li><strong>Join the CoRDS Ataxia Patient Registry<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/cordsconnect.sanfordresearch.org\/BayaPES\/sf\/screeningForm?id=SFSFL\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Join now<\/a><br \/>The purpose of a patient registry is to advance the development of treatments for rare disease by connecting researchers, drug developers, and healthcare professionals with those affected. NAF has partnered with Sanford Research to establish the registry.<\/li><li><strong>Find an Ataxia provider in your area<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/neurologists-and-specialty-clinics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">View list<\/a><br \/>NAF&#8217;s neurologists and specialty clinics list is a regularly updated resource of many providers across the US and Canada who specialize in Ataxia or treat Ataxia patients.<\/li><li><strong>Join a support group in your area<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/support-groups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">See map<\/a><br \/>NAF coordinates support groups as a way to connect with others affected by Ataxia. They are a great way to learn about resources and make new friends. There are in-person and virtual options.<\/li><li><strong>Attend NAF&#8217;s Annual Ataxia Conference (AAC)<\/strong>\u00a0&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/annual-ataxia-conference\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more<\/a><br \/>AAC is an annual gathering where attendees meet and learn from world-leading Ataxia researchers and clinicians.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Consider participating in NAF&#8217;s Brain Donation Program<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/braindonation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more<\/a><br \/>Donating tissue for medical research is an important and deeply personal decision. It is also an important legacy gift that can advance Ataxia research. Proper planning can help ensure that wishes are accounted for and honored at the time of your or a loved one\u2019s passing.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Learn if you are eligible to participate in the CRC-SCA Natural History Study<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/crc-sca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more<\/a><br \/>A natural history study collects data that shows how a specific disease progresses in individuals over time. Natural history studies are essential for developing clinical trial designs that will facilitate drug development.\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Become an advocate for Ataxia<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/advocacy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more<\/a><br \/>Advocacy efforts give us a way to get your stories to policy makers and pharmaceutical companies to grow awareness, accelerate drug development, and ensure access to care and treatment services<\/li><li><strong>Get involved in fundraising!<\/strong> &#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/ways-to-give\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Learn more<\/a><br \/>You have the power to influence the progress being made in Ataxia research and allow us to offer other programs that support the Ataxia community. There are many ways to get involved!<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6870a0c elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6870a0c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Treatment<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f4372d3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"f4372d3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"ataxiaTreatment\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3f46ea0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3f46ea0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>The goal of Ataxia treatment is to improve the quality of life and requires an individualized approach. It is important to work closely with a neurologist to develop a plan to address symptoms. Speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy are common treatment options. They are sometimes used in conjunction with medication therapy to manage symptoms. Many research efforts are currently underway to find more effective treatments for Ataxia.\u00a0<a style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\" href=\"https:\/\/interland3.donorperfect.net\/weblink\/weblink.aspx?name=E79738&amp;id=251\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Become a member of NAF<\/a>\u00a0to receive news when new treatment options become available. Watch our\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/webinars\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">webinars about Ataxia<\/a>\u00a0for more information.<\/p><p>Staying active for as long as possible is an important part of the treatment plan for people with Ataxia. Consult with your physician, neurologist or physical therapist before starting an exercise regimen. Read &#8220;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/11-exercises-for-ataxia-patients\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">11 Exercises for Ataxia Patients<\/a>,&#8221; for things that can be done at home to help maintain strength and balance.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-85af336 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"85af336\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/webinars\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Watch Ataxia Webinars<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-888ade9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"888ade9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Common Medications for Ataxia Symptoms<\/h3><p>Common symptoms associated with Ataxia are listed below with the off-label medications that have been used to treat them. These medications have been reported in medical literature or by Ataxia clinicians. The generic name is listed first (if one is available) with the brand name in parentheses.<\/p><ul><li><strong>Depression: <\/strong>SSRI&#8217;s (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), SNRI&#8217;s (Selective norepinephrine-serotonin reuptake inhibitors) &#8211; classes of drugs for anxiety or depression.<\/li><li><strong>Diziness\/Vertigo:<\/strong> Acetazolamide (Diamox), 4-aminopyridine, Baclofen, Clonazepam, Flunarizine, Gabapentin (Neurontin), Meclizine, Memantine, Ondansetron (Zofran), Scopolamine (eg. Tranderm Scop Patch for motion sickness).<\/li><li><strong>Fatigue:<\/strong> Amantadine, Atomoxetine (Strattera), Buproprion (Wellbutrin), Carnitine, Creatine, Modafinil (Provigil) or Armodafinil (Nuvigil), Pyridostigmine, Selegiline (Eldepryl), Venlafaxine (Effexor), Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq); SSRI&#8217;s, SNRI&#8217;s &#8211; classes of drugs for anxiety or depression that may also help fatigue.<\/li><li><strong>Imbalance\/Incoordination:<\/strong> Amantadine, Buspirone (Buspar), Riluzole (Rilutek).\u00a0<\/li><li><strong>Muscle Cramps or Spasms:<\/strong> Baclofen, Tizanidine (Zanaflex).<\/li><li><strong>Neuropathy:<\/strong> Cymbalta, Lyrica; as well as common usage of Gabapentin, other anti-seizure drugs, and various tricyclic anti-depressants.<\/li><li><strong>Stiffness, Spasticity, Rigidity, Dystonia:<\/strong> Amantadine, Baclofen, Botulinum toxin Shots, Dantrolene sodium (Dantrium), Diazepam (Valium) &#8211; (But high doses can worsen ataxia), Levodopa (carbidopa-levodopa, Sinemet), Pramipexole (Mirapex), Ropinirole (Requip), Tizanidine (Zanaflex), Trihexyphenidyl.<\/li><li><strong>Tremor or Rest Tremor:<\/strong> Amantadine, Botulinum toxin Shots, Carbamazepine, Clonazepam, Deep Brain Stimulation, Flunarizine, Gabapentin (Neurontin), Isoniazid, Levetiracetam, Levodopa (carbidopa-levodopa, Sinemet), NAC (N-acetylcysteine), Ondansetron (Zofran), Pramipexole (Mirapex), Primidone, Propranolol, Ropinirole (Requip), Topiramate, Valproic Acid (Depakote)<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b58e6a4 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"b58e6a4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/secureservercdn.net\/166.62.112.199\/y1x.318.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/Medications-for-Ataxia.pdf\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">See Full List of Medications (PDF)<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-58c03d5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"58c03d5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4>Ataxia Research<\/h4><p>NAF provides support and funding to the world&#8217;s greatest Ataxia scientists. We continue to collaborate with top researchers, looking for better treatment options and a cure. Learn more about current research opportunities and clinical trials for Ataxia on our\u00a0research page.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d7d5c03 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"d7d5c03\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/naf-research\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Learn About Ataxia Research<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3eafc0c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3eafc0c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4>Ataxia Support Groups<\/h4><p>NAF Support Groups are social gatherings that allow you to connect with others affected by Ataxia and learn more about living with the disease. Check out our\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/events\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">event calendar<\/a>\u00a0for a list of upcoming meetings or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/support-groups\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">find a Support Group Leader<\/a>\u00a0in your area to contact them directly. They&#8217;d love to hear from you!<\/p><p>We also have ambassadors in some areas that do not have support groups. These are local volunteers that welcome you to reach out to them with questions. There are online support group options as well.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bd72b0d elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"bd72b0d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/support-groups\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Find a Support Group <\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-711742f elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"711742f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Causes of Ataxia<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4ca69a3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"4ca69a3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"typesOfAtaxia\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d16700d elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"d16700d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Hereditary Ataxias<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c043780 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c043780\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Hereditary Ataxias are genetic, which means they are caused by a defect in a certain gene that is present from the start of a person\u2019s life, inherited from your parents. Hereditary Ataxias can be divided into those that are dominantly inherited, passing from generation to generation due to a single copy of a defective gene passing from parent to child, and those that are recessively inherited, Ataxia seen in a single generation and is due to two copies of a defective gene; one passed from each parent (who are carriers) to the child.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e20edc0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e20edc0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4><span style=\"color: #004a7c; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600;\">Autosomal Dominant Ataxias\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p>Each child of a parent with an autosomal dominant Ataxia gene has a 50% chance of inheriting the Ataxia gene. Since the gene is dominant, if a gene is passed on to the child from one parent, the child will develop the disease. Men and women are affected equally.<\/p><p><b>Spinocerebellar Ataxia<\/b><\/p><p>Spinocerebellar Ataxia is one specific type of Ataxia among a group of inherited diseases of the central nervous system. Genetic defects lead to impairment of specific nerve fibers carrying messages to and from the brain resulting in degeneration of the cerebellum (the motor coordination center of the brain). With the advancement of research more than 40 different genes of SCA have been found with SCA 1 being the first to be found.<\/p><p><a href=\"https:\/\/rarediseases.org\/for-patients-and-families\/information-resources\/rare-disease-video-library\/page\/9\/#watch-42364\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Watch a video about Spinocerebellar Ataxia<\/a><\/p><p><b>Episodic Ataxia<\/b><\/p><p>Episodic Ataxia is clinically characterized by attacks of Ataxia with a clear onset of resolution. There are now eight recognized episodic Ataxia syndromes, numbered 1-8, in addition to late onset episodic Ataxia. The genes are known for EA1, EA2, ES5, and EA6. The best characterized are EA1 and EA2, the others are exceptionally rare and largely defined by single families.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5026221 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5026221\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4><span style=\"color: #004a7c; font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 20px; font-weight: 600;\">Autosomal Recessive Ataxias<\/span><\/h4><p>Autosomal recessive inherited diseases affect males and females equally, but both parents must be carriers of the Ataxia gene <strong>and<\/strong> each must pass on the Ataxia gene to the child for the child to develop the disease. Each child of parents who are carriers of a recessive gene have a 25% chance of developing the disease, a 50% chance of inheriting just one of the Ataxia genes, becoming a carrier themselves, and a 25% chance of inheriting no Ataxia genes. Because a single recessive Ataxia gene does not cause symptoms, it can be passed on in a family for generations without being recognized. Therefore, there can appear to be no \u201cfamily history\u201d of Ataxia if the disease was inherited as a recessive gene.<\/p><p><b>Friedreich&#8217;s Ataxia<\/b><\/p><p>Friedreich Ataxia (FRDA) was named after Nikolaus Friedreich, who first described it in 1863. It was the first form of hereditary Ataxia to be distinguished from other forms of Ataxia. It is caused by an abnormality of a single gene called the Frataxin (FXN) gene. The abnormality can be passed from generation to generation by family members who carry it. Two copies of each gene are inherited; one copy from the mother and one copy from the father. An individual who has one copy of an altered or nonfunctioning FXN gene does not develop any neurological symptoms and is called a carrier.<\/p><p><b>Ataxia Telangiectasia<\/b><\/p><p>Ataxia Telangiectasia appears early in childhood when children begin to walk. Though they usually start walking at a normal age, they wobble or sway when walking, standing still or sitting. They start to show signs of Ataxia and soon after will show sign of \u201ctelangiectasia,\u201d or tiny red \u201cspider\u201d veins, which appear in the corners of the eyes or on the surface of the ears and cheeks exposed to sunlight. This unique appearance together with ataxia is what led to naming this disease \u201cataxia-telangiectasia.\u201d<\/p><p><b>Mitochondrial Ataxia<\/b><\/p><p>Ataxia can be inherited in other ways too. Mitochondrial Ataxias pass from mother to child through the defect Mitochondria in the mother\u2019s eggs.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-37b9797 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"37b9797\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Acquired Ataxias<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2217cb5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2217cb5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>There is a large group of people who have symptoms of Ataxia that usually begin in adulthood, appear \u201cout of nowhere\u201d, and who have no known family history of the disease. With acquired Ataxia, there is an external cause, which means a person developed it because of something that happened during their life. This can include many different problems and events such as vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune conditions, some infections, exposure to toxic substances or drugs (especially alcohol), various cancers, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and many more.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c175279 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c175279\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Sporadic Ataxia<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7d46d6a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7d46d6a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400; color: var( --e-global-color-text ); font-family: var( --e-global-typography-text-font-family ), Sans-serif; font-size: 16px;\">Sporadic Ataxia occurs without any evidence that it was inherited from a family member or acquired through an external cause. It can be difficult to diagnose. Other forms of Ataxia must be ruled out before a diagnosis of Sporadic Ataxia can be made. This disease is termed \u201cneurodegenerative\u201d because the nerve cells in the cerebellum gradually disappear over time without a known cause. Sporadic Ataxia can be either \u201cpure cerebellar\u201d if only the cerebellum is affected or cerebellar plus, if the Ataxia is accompanied by additional symptoms such as neuropathy, dementia, or weakness, rigidity, or spasticity of the muscles. Disability may be greater and progress more quickly with the cerebellar plus form of Sporadic Ataxia.<\/span><\/h4><div><p>Physicians often use various terms when they make a diagnosis of Sporadic Ataxia. Some of those terms include:<\/p><ul><li>Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA)<\/li><li>Olivopontocerebellar degeneration<\/li><li>Idiopathic late onset cerebellar atrophy or degeneration (ILOCA or ILOCD)<\/li><\/ul><\/div><p><span style=\"font-weight: bold;\">Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)<\/span><\/p><p>In some people, the symptoms of Sporadic Ataxia are a prelude to the development of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), which includes Ataxia, Parkinsonian features (such as rigidity and slowness of movement), and difficulty with the autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system controls the automatic functioning of the body, including regulation of blood pressure, digestion, bladder and bowel function, some sexual functions, and sweating. People with MSA, whose symptoms begin with Sporadic Ataxia, may develop Parkinsonian symptoms of slowness and stiffness of movement along with difficulty turning over in bed and rising from a soft chair.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bb3dfa7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"bb3dfa7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h4 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Ataxia as a Symptom<\/h4>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3f1d14c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3f1d14c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h4><span style=\"font-weight: 400; color: #0a0a0a; font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;\">The word \u201cataxia\u201d can also be used to describe a symptom of incoordination which can be associated with infections, injuries, other diseases, or degenerative changes in the central nervous system. This form of ataxia is different from neurological disease. For people who have ataxia as a symptom of another medical condition, such as head injury, stroke, MS, alcoholism, etc., we recommend that you contact the organization related to your specific condition for the most up-to-date and accurate information.<\/span><\/h4>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6e538fb elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6e538fb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What Can I Do Now?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6457766 elementor-widget elementor-widget-menu-anchor\" data-id=\"6457766\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"menu-anchor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-menu-anchor\" id=\"moreAtaxiaInformation\"><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ece9601 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ece9601\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>We encourage those affected by Ataxia, family members, caregivers, and friends to get involved in the search for a cure. This can include participating in research initiatives and clinical trials that are working towards new treatments, staying connected with others that have Ataxia, and\/or organizing fundraisers to support NAF&#8217;s work.\u00a0<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-ccd9790 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"ccd9790\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-58e3809\" data-id=\"58e3809\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-04b7517 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"04b7517\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/help-develop-new-treatments\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Participate in Research<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-fb3ca83\" data-id=\"fb3ca83\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bf1155a elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"bf1155a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/support-groups\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Find a Support Group<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-c6acd4a\" data-id=\"c6acd4a\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-348c646 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"348c646\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/ways-to-give\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Get Involved in Fundraising<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is Ataxia? Serving the Ataxia community since 1957. SYMPTOMS DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT CAUSES OF ATAXIA MORE INFO RESEARCH PIPELINE FIND CARE Quick Links Ataxia is a rare neurological disease. It <a class=\"MoreInfo\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ataxia.org\/what-is-ataxia\/\">Read More&#8230;<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":58,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"elementor_header_footer","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-10038","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>What is Ataxia? - National Ataxia Foundation<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Ataxia is a rare neurological disease affecting coordination, speech, and motor skills. 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