4. Brain Tumors: The Uninvited Guests
Fourth on our list of causes are brain tumors. These unwanted growths can originate in the brain itself (primary brain tumors), or they can begin elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain (secondary or metastatic brain tumors). But what links them to ataxia?
Brain tumors can cause ataxia when they grow in or near the cerebellum, exerting pressure on it. The cerebellum, our ‘little brain’ at the base of the skull, is our body’s balance center.
It fine-tunes motor movements, enabling us to move smoothly and maintain balance. When a tumor invades this space, it disrupts the cerebellum’s function, often leading to ataxia.
The type of ataxia resulting from a brain tumor is typically classified as cerebellar ataxia. Symptoms can include unsteady walk, clumsiness, speech difficulties, and nystagmus—a condition where the eyes make involuntary repetitive movements.
Treatment for ataxia caused by brain tumors primarily focuses on treating the tumor itself. Options can range from surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these, depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor.
Physical therapy is also a crucial part of the recovery process. It can help patients cope with ataxia, improve their motor functions, and enhance their overall quality of life. Moreover, regular follow-ups are essential for monitoring any signs of the tumor’s return. (4)
