What can be done to prevent the condition?

Prevention depends on the cause. For example, avoiding alcohol will prevent cases caused by drinking alcohol. Practicing safer sex can prevent many cases from syphilis infections or AIDS. Many cases cannot be prevented.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Depending on the cause of ataxia, there may or may not be long-term effects. For example, ataxia from alcohol usually goes away when the person is no longer intoxicated. If ataxia is related to a brain tumor or cancer, death may occur. Multiple sclerosis can result in permanent disability and severe weakness.

What are the risks to others?

In the large majority of cases, there are no risks to others. There may be a risk to others if, for example, a drunk person drives a car. In some cases, an infection is the cause of ataxia. The underlying infection may be contagious.