What Causes Acute Cerebellar Ataxia?

Acute cerebellar ataxia is a relatively common disorder that develops in the brain whenever the cerebellum becomes damaged or inflamed in some manner. The cerebellum portion of the brain is the area with direct control over muscle coordination and gait. Ataxia is a term used to describe not having precise control over voluntary movements. When individuals have been affected by acute cerebellar ataxia, this means it occurred suddenly and without much forewarning. Because of how this condition adversely affects muscle coordination, patients may find it difficult to complete daily tasks. While acute cerebellar ataxia can affect adults, it's most commonly found among young children between two and seven years old. Some additional symptoms attributed to this disorder include regular stumbling, headaches, slurred speech, and dizziness. The treatment recommended to patients depends on what's causing the acute cerebellar ataxia. Get to know some of these causes now.

Lead Or Mercury Exposure

While most causes of acute cerebellar ataxia are related to diseases and viruses that attack the nervous system, there are also some additional causes such as lead or mercury exposure. Both mercury and lead are highly toxic substances that can lead to a wide range of harmful side effects within the body and brain. Mercury can be found in small amounts within many different food products and items, which shouldn't create many issues with an individual's health. However, consuming too much of this toxic metal through seafood or a similar reason may cause mercury poisoning. Most of the side effects pertaining to mercury exposure are neurological side effects. It's possible for the cerebellum to be damaged by mercury exposure to the point where acute cerebellar ataxia occurs. The same is true with lead poisoning. When lead builds up within the body, patients may experience a range of symptoms that extend from acute cerebellar ataxia to death. This buildup can occur over months or even years. Lead is found in high amounts within lead-based arts supplies and gasoline purchased outside of the United States.

Get the details on more causes of acute cerebellar ataxia now.