What are the symptoms of cerebellar atrophy?

Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
Updated on September 26, 2024
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Patients with cerebellar atrophy usually exhibit the following symptoms: First, these patients generally experience significant dizziness, with some displaying vertigo, a symptom that requires clinical attention. Second, these patients typically exhibit unstable walking as a clinical symptom, and even standing can be very difficult. Third, these patients will experience limb ataxia. For example, when they try to touch their nose with their finger, they miss. Their hands also shake when trying to hold objects. Fourth, individuals with brain atrophy may also exhibit unclear speech, with symptoms such as explosive sounds when speaking. Additionally, the cause of cerebellar atrophy may vary, which can lead to other symptoms. For instance, cerebellar atrophy caused by multisystem atrophy may also present Parkinson-like symptoms.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Causes of Cerebellar Atrophy

The causes of cerebellar atrophy are quite diverse: First, some genetic diseases can lead to significant cerebellar atrophy, such as hereditary cerebellar ataxia, where patients experience obvious cerebellar atrophy. Currently, there are no effective treatments for this condition. Second, chronic alcohol poisoning from long-term drinking can lead to alcohol intoxication, which particularly damages cerebellar cells and causes cerebellar atrophy. Third, there are also some vascular diseases, such as cerebellar thrombosis. Recurrent cerebellar thrombosis can cause cerebellar atrophy. Fourth, other conditions like cerebellar inflammation and cerebellar tumors can also cause significant cerebellar atrophy. Fifth, some neurodegenerative diseases can also damage the cerebellum, such as multiple system atrophy with olivopontocerebellar atrophy, which also leads to cerebellar atrophy and manifests as ataxia.

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Written by Tang Bo
Neurology
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What should I do about brain atrophy?

Brain atrophy includes both physiological and pathological types. Physiological brain atrophy generally occurs as age increases, similar to how wrinkles appear on the face. This type does not usually present symptoms and typically does not require treatment, as some degree of brain shrinkage may happen with age. Pathological brain atrophy, however, can occur in younger individuals and requires investigation to determine the underlying cause. Diagnostic tests should be conducted to clarify the cause of the atrophy and identify any specific diseases, which will guide the treatment plan. Additionally, some patients may experience atrophy due to past events like cerebral hemorrhage or stroke, which are caused by specific lesions. In such cases, treating the original disease is the approach taken, so the treatment plan for brain atrophy should be based on the specific circumstances.

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Written by Liu Yan Hao
Neurology
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How is brain atrophy treated?

Brain atrophy is a common condition among older patients, characterized by symptoms such as memory decline. Treatment may involve the use of medications that invigorate the blood, improve cerebral circulation, and nourish brain cells. Additionally, dietary therapy can include foods or medicines that nourish the kidneys, and it is recommended to consume more walnuts regularly. Why do foods that nourish the kidneys treat brain atrophy? According to traditional Chinese medicine theory, the kidneys govern the bones and produce marrow, and the brain is the sea of marrow; thus, nourishing the kidneys can treat brain atrophy. Regular consumption of foods like Chinese yam and goji berries is encouraged. These can be added to soups and porridges to help nourish the kidneys and brain, and treat brain atrophy.

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Written by Zhang Hui
Neurology
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Can cerebellar atrophy be treated?

There are various causes of cerebellar atrophy, and whether it can be treated depends crucially on the cause. If the atrophy is caused by genetic heart disease, there are no effective treatment options. For example, cerebellar ataxia due to spinal ataxia or multiple system atrophy typically worsens progressively, manifesting in significant coordination loss, unstable walking, and other clinical symptoms, with a lack of effective treatment options. However, cerebellar atrophy caused by long-term alcohol consumption can be treated. It is most important to quit drinking and then administer high doses of B vitamins, which can significantly improve symptoms. If cerebellar atrophy is caused by cerebellar ischemia, actively improving cerebral blood supply and taking antiplatelet aggregation drugs can also be effective. (Note: This answer is for reference only. Please consult a professional physician for medication guidance and avoid self-medication.)

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Written by Liu Yan Hao
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How to look at brain atrophy films

Brain atrophy images, in fact, are simple to read, whether it's brain MRI or head CT scans. You'll notice that the brain sulci have become widened, giving the brain a less full appearance, similar to a walnut, a flattened walnut, not very plump, with widened brain sulci and fissures. The brain volume appears smaller, which is typical of brain atrophy images. The treatment for brain atrophy can involve using medications that nourish brain cells and improve cerebral circulation. In terms of dietary therapy, it's beneficial to consume more walnuts and foods that enhance kidney function regularly. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the kidney governs the bones and generates marrow, and the brain is considered the sea of marrow; thus, these kidney-nourishing foods are believed to be effective in treating brain atrophy. Foods such as Chinese yam and goji berries can be added to soups or used to make porridge, offering benefits in treating brain atrophy.