In some people, ataxia gets progressively worse.
In others, it may disappear over time.
The life expectancy of someone with episodic ataxia is not any shorter.
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This article explains the different types and causes of episodic ataxia.
It also covers how episodic ataxia is diagnosed and treated.
Types of Episodic Ataxia
Episodic ataxia is uncommon and affects fewer than one in 100,000 people.
There are at least 11 types of episodic ataxia.
key in 2 is the most common.
Episodes of poor coordination and balance characterize all types of episodic ataxia.
These periods are often brought on by exercise, caffeine, or stress.
Sometimes there may be a rippling of the muscles (myokymia) that comes on with the ataxia.
Symptoms usually begin in adolescence.
The easiest way to test for EA1 is to getgenetic testing.
Like EA1, people with EA2 usually first feel symptoms in adolescence.
Other Episodic Ataxias
The remaining episodic ataxia are very rare.
Each of these subtypes has been reported in only one or two families.
Not all types of episodic ataxia are numbered, such as episodic ataxia withparoxysmal choreoathetosisand spasticity.
Paroxysmal choreoathetosis refers to uncontrollable movements of the arm, leg, face, and body muscles.
This form progresses slowly and does not respond well to treatment.
Causes of Episodic Ataxia
Episodic ataxia is agenetic disorderthat is inherited from a biological parent.
However, sometimes the mutation can occur on its own.
Episodic ataxia key in 1 is brought on by a mutation in a potassium ion channel.
Episodic ataxia jot down 2 is brought on by a mutation in a calcium channel.
Some people with EA2 also have symptoms that are reminiscent of those other diseases.
However, if there is a clearfamily history of ataxia, it may be worth obtaining genetic testing.
Most physicians recommend working with a genetic counselor when seeking this kind of testing.
It is important to know what a genetic test means not only for you but your family as well.
Physical therapy may be helpful to manage the ataxia when it is present.
While episodic ataxia is not common, a diagnosis has implications for both the patient and their family.
It is important forneurologistsand patients to think about episodic ataxia when there is a family history of clumsiness.
Summary
Episodic ataxia refers to a group of uncommon neurological conditions affecting coordination and balance.
The types of episodic ataxia are distinguished by their symptoms and other factors.
Episodes of uncontrollable muscle movements vary in length and frequency and may improve over time.
Genetic testing is used to diagnose episodic ataxia.
Genetic counseling is available to help families with rare genetic disorders like episodic ataxia.
Treatment for episodic ataxia may involve medication and physical therapy.
Talk to a healthcare provider if you are experiencing uncontrollable muscle movements.
Your provider will want to rule out more common causes and ensure you’re getting appropriate treatment.
National Ataxia Foundation.Episodic ataxia.
