Ataxia is a loss of coordination in the arms, legs, fingers, face or other part of the body as a result of damage to the cerebellum or spinal cord. The cerebellum is the part of the brain responsible for coordination and movement. People who experience ataxia may have trouble walking, coordinating precise movements, moving the eyes efficiently or speaking clearly. They may also exhibit symptoms such as aphasia, apraxia or tremors. Severe ataxia may result in swallowing problems, which can lead to additional complications.

Ataxia is a symptom rather than a disease. However, the term ataxia may also be used to describe disorders where the primary symptom is ataxia. Examples of ataxia disorders are spinocerebellar ataxia, Friedreich’s ataxia and ataxia telangiectasia. These disorders are hereditary and have no known cure.

Ataxia can be caused by anything that disrupts the function of the cerebellum. Some factors that may cause ataxia include:

• Stroke
• Head injury
• Tumors
• Infections
• Alcohol abuse