Episodic ataxia is a genetic condition that causes problems with how you walk, move and balance. You experience these problems during episodes with a clear beginning and end. Episodic ataxia isn’t curable, but healthcare providers can help you manage symptoms with medications and physical therapy.
Ataxia is a neurological condition that causes problems with movement, balance and speaking. There are different types of ataxia. Episodic ataxia (EA) is one type. EA causes periods (episodes) of movement and balance problems. These episodes have a clear beginning and end. There may be some symptoms that also persist between these episodes.
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Some people refer to episodic ataxia as episodic ataxia syndrome or EA syndrome.
There are many types of ataxia. Your provider determines what type you have based on your symptoms and how the condition developed. Some types of ataxia are progressive (always present, gradually worsening over time). Some types of ataxia are inherited from your parents (genetic), while other types begin suddenly or because of a degenerative condition (acquired).
Different types of ataxia cause different symptoms, like problems with:
People who have changes (mutations) in certain genes from their parents might develop episodic ataxia. But some gene mutations happen on their own (spontaneously) with no family history. The age of onset for episodic ataxia — the age when you first notice symptoms — can vary.
Episodic ataxia is rare. Experts think it occurs in about 1 out of 100,000 people.
If you have episodic ataxia, you might have trouble walking, balancing or moving for a few minutes or a few hours. These episodes can happen every day or only occasionally.
Trouble moving and balancing are the main symptoms of episodic ataxia. You might fall or feel clumsy.
During an episode, you might also have:
Researchers think gene mutations cause episodic ataxia. Experts have identified the gene mutations that cause some types of EA. They’re continuing to research other genetic causes of EA. Episodic ataxia diagnosis can be complex.
To date, at least eight different episodic ataxia types (syndromes) have been identified. Experts have identified3e gene mutations associated with several, including:
In people with EA1 and EA2, certain behaviors or conditions may bring on episodes. These include:
Some types of EA are so rare that experts have only identified them in one or two families. These include:
Researchers have identified some of the genes associated with these EA types. But they're still learning about others.
Your healthcare provider does a physical examination and talks with you about your symptoms. They also ask about ataxia in any family members.
You may meet with a brain and nervous system specialist (neurologist). They may do more tests to confirm an episodic ataxia diagnosis.
Your healthcare provider may recommend tests to look at your brain and nerves. These tests include:
Your provider may also recommend genetic testing. They look for genetic mutations associated with episodic ataxia.
Episodic ataxia isn’t curable. But your healthcare provider will recommend strategies and medications to manage your symptoms and help you live an active, independent life.
Depending on your symptoms, healthcare providers may recommend medications that block nerve channels. These medications can help control or reduce ataxia episodes.
Other medications help with certain symptoms like nystagmus or seizures. Researchers are studying new ways that medications can help people with EA.
You may also have physical therapy to help you get stronger and improve problems with walking (gait disorders).
Talk to your healthcare provider about any foods or drinks that might make ataxia episodes worse, like caffeine. Researchers are still studying how certain foods and drinks affect EA.
Your healthcare provider can help. In general, it’s important to:
Episodic ataxia is a genetic condition. There’s nothing anyone did that caused EA. You inherit these mutations, or they may happen on their own, but there’s nothing you can do to reduce the risk of EA or prevent it.
Episodic ataxia is usually a lifelong condition. Your healthcare provider is your partner in living a healthy life. Talk with your provider about managing symptoms and finding support.
People with episodic ataxia have the same life expectancy as the general population.
Sometimes, EA symptoms disappear as you grow older. But this isn’t always the case.
Many people with EA can control their symptoms with medication. Others learn to manage their symptoms with physical therapy and emotional support.
See your healthcare provider for all scheduled appointments. Follow their instructions for diet and exercise. Let your provider know if you experience any new or troubling symptoms.
If symptoms of episodic ataxia make it impossible for you to work, you may be able to apply for disability benefits. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether your condition and symptoms meet Social Security Administration requirements for disability benefits.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Episodic ataxia (EA) is a lifelong genetic condition that affects movement and balance. If you have EA, you may have daily or occasional episodes of disrupted movement. Medications may help manage symptoms. Talk to your healthcare provider about steps you can take to stay healthy and manage symptoms.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 04/16/2022.
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Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy