7. Impaired Coordination: Navigating the World with CAA
Impaired coordination is another symptom associated with CAA. As with other symptoms, this arises from the amyloid-beta protein build-up disrupting the normal functioning of the brain’s blood vessels. When these vessels supply the areas of the brain responsible for coordinating body movements, their impairment can lead to difficulties with coordination.
This impairment can manifest in various ways. Some individuals might have trouble with fine motor tasks, like buttoning a shirt or using utensils. Others may have a harder time with gross motor tasks, like walking or balancing. This lack of coordination can significantly impact an individual’s ability to perform routine tasks, affecting their independence and overall quality of life.
In its early stages, impaired coordination in CAA might be subtle and easy to dismiss. The individual might be slightly clumsy or have a slightly unsteady gait. (7)