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Suggest Treatment For Severe Fatigue And Lumbar Issues

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Posted on Fri, 2 Dec 2016
Question: Lumbar problems, 2 surgeries, pain gone, walking and balance still deteriorating over last several years, MRI of L5-S1 does not support lumbar spine as source of problem, MRI of brain shows normal brain but concerning cerebellar atrophy ( not normal ). I have been told it might be spino-cerebellar ataxia, that would include a long list of potential genetic anomalies and further testing is required. I am a health care provider ( PHARMACY ) I feel like I have been run over by a truck some days. I am not moving well and experiencing fatigue that is unusual for me. What am I to expect going forward, the neurologist says no definiaive diagnosis till more test for genetic marker. Is there any therapy for this. I am determined to maintain a high level of engagement professionally but it's becoming difficult.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Coordination and speech may worsen, diagnosis needs to be confirmed.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for using HCM.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

If spinocerebellar ataxia is suspected to be the cause of your problems, it is true that genetic testing is necessary to identify the type.

The symptoms vary with the specific type and with the individual patient.

Besides walking ad balance impairment, coordination of hands, speech problems may occur.

Some forms are slowly progressive, others progress more rapidly.

If diagnosis is confirmed after genetic testing, there is no known cure for spinocerebellar ataxia.

Treatment aims to improve symptoms and to support the patient's needs.

Staying active and busy can improve the quality of life in such cases.

So, get genetically tested about spinocerebellar ataxia in order to know the correct diagnosis.

Hope I helped you.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Kind regards.


Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho

Neurologist, Surgical

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 4493 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Severe Fatigue And Lumbar Issues

Brief Answer: Coordination and speech may worsen, diagnosis needs to be confirmed. Detailed Answer: Hello and thanks for using HCM. I have read your question and understand your concerns. If spinocerebellar ataxia is suspected to be the cause of your problems, it is true that genetic testing is necessary to identify the type. The symptoms vary with the specific type and with the individual patient. Besides walking ad balance impairment, coordination of hands, speech problems may occur. Some forms are slowly progressive, others progress more rapidly. If diagnosis is confirmed after genetic testing, there is no known cure for spinocerebellar ataxia. Treatment aims to improve symptoms and to support the patient's needs. Staying active and busy can improve the quality of life in such cases. So, get genetically tested about spinocerebellar ataxia in order to know the correct diagnosis. Hope I helped you. Let me know if I can assist you further. Kind regards.