Steve

[18-steve]

hello.i think I have ataxia as members of my family have it.is it classed as a disability?

[wobblybee]

Hi Steve😊

There are many types of Cerebellar ataxia.  Some can be mild and manageable and a person might not consider themselves disabled.  It really depends on the severity of the symptoms as to whether a person would consider themselves disabled, as with any other condition.

In any case, even members of the same family who are diagnosed with Cerebellar ataxia do not necessarily have symptoms appear, or progress to the same degree.

If other family members have been diagnosed with a specific type, why don't you ask to be tested? Speak confidentially to your GP, you could ask to be referred to an Ataxia Centre 🙂xB

[TELEEN]

Yes it is classed as a disability as it is progressive there is no cure at the moment...you should apply for DLA.

[lynnm in reply to TELEEN]

Thanks I did not know that it is classed as a disability for DLA . I am under sheffield Gluten ataxia clinic, with many balance ,falls,Pain, and many more problems. Will have to look into DLA  .

[TELEEN]

You say you think you have Ataxia,you should have it confirmed by a doctor..

[123geoff]

Ataxia can come a big surprise when a neurology tells you have from the MRI scan. He explained it is back of the lower scull, but on the scan part of the top spine and lower was slight twist that part in spine does not apply to everyone.  DLA also checked and a great deal can give answers but some are rare. Yes it should be thoroughly tested to give a better understanding of what you have, in some people they can be helped to be stable with medication.