Hopkins Medicine Ataxia Symptoms

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Cognitive and Mood Problems - In addition to motor dysfunction, patients with cerebellar degeneration may have cognitive and emotional difficulties. The cerebellum plays a role in some forms of thinking. Patients with cerebellar atrophy may have impaired recall of newly learned information or difficulty with “executive functions” such as making plans and keeping thoughts in proper sequence. Personality and mood disorders, such as increased irritability, anxiety, and depression, are more common in persons with cerebellar degeneration than in control subjects. It is important to examine mood and cognitive function in patients with cerebellar problems. These disorders are likely to respond to treatment, such as cognitive exercises, psychotherapy, and pharmacological treatment.