That's a really understandable concern. Whether ataxia can be cured depends on the type.
Acquired ataxia (caused by things like vitamin deficiencies, infections, or gluten sensitivity) can often be treated or even cured by addressing the root cause.
Hereditary ataxia (caused by genetic changes) currently has no cure, but Show Full Answer
That's a really understandable concern. Whether ataxia can be cured depends on the type.
Acquired ataxia (caused by things like vitamin deficiencies, infections, or gluten sensitivity) can often be treated or even cured by addressing the root cause.
Hereditary ataxia (caused by genetic changes) currently has no cure, but it can be managed. Examples include:
- Friedreich ataxia (FA)
- Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA)
- Episodic ataxia
- Ataxia-telangiectasia For hereditary ataxia, the focus is on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life. Tools that can help include:
- Physical therapy to improve walking and coordination
- Occupational therapy for daily tasks and assistive devices
- Speech therapy for communication and swallowing
For Friedreich ataxia specifically, the FDA approved a medication called omaveloxolone (Skyclarys) in 2023, which can help improve function.
Research into new treatments, including gene therapy, is also actively ongoing — so there is real hope on the horizon.
September 27