brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Fragile X–Associated Tremor Ataxia Syndrome
Symptoms of FXTAS
Symptoms of Fragile X–associated tremor/ataxia syndrome usually develop during late adulthood. The first symptom is often Tremors in the hands, typically when people try to do a task Other symptoms include tremors when at rest, loss of coordination (ataxia), slow movements, stiffness, and decreased facial expression ( Symptoms ). People may have problems remembering recent events and solving problems. They may think more slowly. Mental function may progressively deteriorate. People may also have personality changes. They may become depressed, anxious, impatient, hostile, and moody. Sensation in the feet may be lost. Internal organs may malfunction. Affected people may feel light-headed when they stand because blood pressure does not increase as it normally does (called Dizziness or Light-Headedness When Standing Up ). Eventually, they may lose control of the bladder and bowel movements. After symptoms appear, people may live from about 5 to 25 years. In women with the premutation, symptoms are usually less severe, possibly because they have another X chromosome, which seems to protect against the effects of the X chromosome with the premutation. Women with the premutation are more likely to have early menopause and infertility problems than women without it. 