About Ataxia

Pink Bougainville flowers on a white building in Greece

Ataxia is a rare degenerative disease or condition that affects balance and coordination. It brings mobility issues as well as fatigue and speech problems. It can also affect eyesight and swallowing, cause painful spasms and can curve the spine.

There are 2 main types of hereditary Ataxia, Cerebella ataxia and Friedreich’s Ataxia. The former is due to the back of the brain not sending the correct signals. Freidreich’s comes from a cellular breakdown and is lifespan limiting.

Of the Cerebella Ataxias there are numerous types or variations. Over 40% of sufferers however have idiopathic or unknown causes to their ataxia.

There is no cure.

The following organisations can help provide more information and offer support:

Ataxia UK

Home - National Ataxia Foundation USA

Freidreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA) USA

Ataxia Information Australia

Euro Ataxia

FARA New Zealand

Ataxia Canada