Cerebellar Atrophy Cerebellar atrophy is an imaging manifestation identified through brain CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), indicating a degenerative condition affecting the cerebellum. It can be observed in certain genetic and degenerative diseases, as well as in some acute conditions, drug toxicity, and may also result from natural aging in humans. A common feature of cerebellar atrophy is the reduction in volume of the cerebellum, along with increased depth and width of the brain fissures as observed in neuroimaging studies.

Genetic diseases: Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA), Friedreich's ataxia, and dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy.

Degenerative diseases: Multiple system atrophy with cerebellar features (MSA-C).

Ischemic-hypoxic diseases: Such as acute stroke, cerebral hemorrhage, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Toxicity from drugs: Such as phenytoin sodium.

Inflammatory conditions: Sequelae of acute cerebellitis.

Alcohol toxicity: Alcoholic cerebellar degeneration.

Others: Paraneoplastic syndromes of the nervous system.

Ataxia: The primary symptom of cerebellar atrophy, characterized by unsteady gait, often presenting as a drunken or staggering walk; advanced cases may lead to the inability to walk, necessitating long-term bed rest.

Cranial nerve dysfunction: Dizziness, forgetfulness, memory impairment, dull expression, delayed reactions, and tremors in the limbs.

Dysarthria: Unclear speech, sometimes with explosive or scanning speech patterns.

Cognitive impairment: Forgetfulness, difficulty in understanding others, and eventually an inability to perform activities of daily living.

Nystagmus: Involuntary eye movement from side to side.

According to TCM theory, the key to treating cerebellar atrophy lies in nourishing the kidneys, replenishing qi, promoting blood circulation, invigorating the brain, resolving phlegm, and opening the orifices. TCM treatment primarily focuses on nourishing the marrow and essence, promoting blood circulation, and nourishing qi and blood to temporarily alleviate the condition.

Lifestyle habits: Quitting smoking and alcohol, maintaining regular sleep patterns.

Diet: Adjusting diet to be light and nutritious, emphasizing high-protein and high-vitamin foods, and ensuring a balanced diet.

Exercise: Patients with milder symptoms can engage in physical labor and sports activities as advised by a doctor to improve physical fitness and enhance the body's resistance to disease.