Sensory ataxia
Sensory ataxia is a medical condition characterized by difficulties in movement and balance due to impaired processing of sensory information by the brain. This condition arises when the nerves in the spinal cord or peripheral nervous system are damaged, impacting how the brain receives signals from the body, particularly regarding position and movement. Individuals with sensory ataxia may experience symptoms such as an inability to maintain balance with closed eyes, challenges walking in low light, and uncoordinated movements. Causes can include hereditary factors, trauma, diseases like multiple sclerosis, nutritional deficiencies, or substance abuse. Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and specific tests to determine the underlying cause. Treatment focuses on managing the root cause when possible, alongside therapeutic interventions such as physical, occupational, or speech therapy to improve coordination and reduce the risk of falls. Support groups and counseling may also be beneficial for individuals coping with the challenges of sensory ataxia.
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Sensory ataxia
Sensory ataxia is a medical condition caused when the interaction between the brain and other parts of the nervous system is impaired. This impairment affects how information from the senses is processed, which in turn affects how the body moves. A person with sensory ataxia may be unable to move when they want to or may have a hand or foot that moves when they do not want it to. One common sign of sensory ataxia is being unable to maintain balance with closed eyes. The word ataxia comes from Greek through Latin; a means “without,” and taxis means “order.” A person with ataxia moves without order, or without coordination.
Ataxia refers to multiple conditions in which a problem with the brain affects how a person moves. The three main forms of ataxia are classified according to which part of the body is causing it. Cerebellar ataxia originates in the brain, while vestibular ataxia originates in the ear. Sensory ataxia originates in the nerves. The condition can be caused by trauma, disease, and substance abuse, among other concerns. It is treated by addressing the underlying condition causing it, if possible, and through physical, occupational, and speech therapy to reduce symptoms and prevent injury.
Overview
Sensory ataxia is caused by conditions that affect how the brain receives and processes information from the somatosensory system that carries information from other parts of the body to the brain. Multiple conditions can cause damage to the nerves in the spinal cord or the peripheral nervous system in the rest of the body. This damage can be hereditary or acquired. Some causes of acquired ataxia include brain injuries, brain tumors, hydrocephalus or fluid on the brain, diseases such as multiple sclerosis and chickenpox, and deficiencies of vitamin B12 or E. It can also be caused by abusing alcohol or drugs, reactions to certain drugs, or poisoning. In some cases, no cause can be found; this is called idiopathic sensory ataxia.
Symptoms of sensory ataxia include lack of balance with closed eyes, difficulty walking in low light conditions, the inability to sense vibrations, trouble touching a finger to the nose with closed eyes, and unintentionally stomping or walking with a heavy step. These symptoms are the result of the brain receiving insufficient information to send accurate instructions to the rest of the body to properly coordinate movement.
Physicians diagnose sensory ataxia through a physical exam and a variety of tests. The tests performed depend on the suspected cause. Once it is diagnosed, some cases of sensory ataxia can be addressed by treating the original condition. A person with a vitamin deficiency can be treated with vitamin supplements, for instance. For those cases where treating the cause is not possible or does not yield full results, physicians generally prescribe physical, occupational, or speech therapy to help the person regain as much movement control as possible. Physical and occupational therapy can help reduce the likelihood of falls and injuries caused by ataxia. Counseling and support groups may also be recommended.
Bibliography
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