Is mild diffuse cerebral atrophy normal?

A mild degree of brain atrophy is not always a concern. Substantial brain atrophy can be associated with major neurological diseases, such as a large stroke or progressive dementia. In some instances, it isn’t clear whether cerebral atrophy caused the medical condition or vice versa.

What is the meaning of mild diffuse cerebral atrophy?

Cerebral atrophy is the loss of brain cells, called neurons, and their electrochemical connectors, called synapses. This cell loss results in brain shrinkage and, depending on its source and extent, declines in cognitive ability. Cerebral atrophy occurs naturally in all humans.

What is mild atrophy of the cerebellum?

In the case of cerebellar atrophy, the cerebellar portion of the brain, which is the part that controls motor function, movement, and the senses, may not be all that is affected. Cerebellar atrophy is a neurological disease or process of wasting that affects the brain, brain stem, and potentially even the spinal cord.

How do you treat diffuse cerebral atrophy?

There is no specific treatment or cure for cerebral atrophy. Some symptoms of underlying causes can be managed and treated. Controlling blood pressure and eating a healthy, balanced diet is advised. Some research suggests that physical exercise may slow the speed of atrophy.

Can cerebellar atrophy be reversed?

In most of these cases, reversing cerebellar atrophy is typically not possible. Drug therapies can be used to treat specific related symptoms. However, in instances where the underlying cause of cerebellar atrophy is found and is itself capable of being reversed, the condition may improve or even be reversed.

Is cerebral atrophy a disability?

When the damage caused by cerebral atrophy becomes so debilitating that a person is unable to work, they may be able to obtain disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.

How is cerebellar atrophy treated?

There is no cure for hereditary forms of cerebellar degeneration. Treatment is usually supportive and is based on the person’s symptoms. For example, drugs may be prescribed to ease gait abnormalities. Physical therapy can strengthen muscles.

What are the symptoms of cerebellar atrophy?

Cerebellar degeneration is primarily characterized by a wide-legged, unsteady, lurching walk that is usually accompanied by a back and forth tremor in the trunk of the body. Other signs and symptoms may include slow, unsteady and jerky movement of the arms or legs; slowed and slurred speech; and nystagmus .

Is cerebral atrophy normal with aging?

The brain’s overall size begins to shrink when you’re in your 30s or 40s, and the rate of shrinkage increases once you reach age 60. Brain shrinkage doesn’t happen to all areas of the brain at once. Some areas shrink more and faster than others, and brain shrinkage is likely to get more severe as you get older.

Is cerebellar atrophy curable?

How long can you live with cerebellar atrophy?

Life expectancy among patients with brain atrophy can be influenced by the condition that caused the brain shrinkage. People with Alzheimer’s disease live an average of four to eight years after their diagnosis.