Symptom 6. Physical Coordination Difficulties – An Unsteady Reality
Korsakoff Syndrome can also present itself through physical symptoms. In some cases, individuals may experience problems with coordination and balance, making it challenging to carry out motor tasks that were once second nature to them. This can range from subtle issues like clumsiness or unsteady gait to more noticeable problems like difficulty walking or repeated falls.
Underlying these physical symptoms is a condition known as ataxia, a dysfunction of the parts of the nervous system that control movement and balance. In the context of KS, ataxia often results from thiamine deficiency, which causes damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for maintaining balance and coordination.
Physical coordination difficulties can have a broad impact on a person’s daily life. Simple tasks such as dressing, eating, or even getting up from a chair can become demanding. It also increases the risk of injuries due to falls, further complicating the management of KS.
The presence of ataxia and other physical symptoms highlights the wide-ranging impact of Korsakoff Syndrome. It underlines the need for comprehensive care that addresses not just the cognitive and behavioral symptoms, but also the physical aspects of this complex condition. (6)
