Symptoms usually start between the ages of 4 and 16. By their early twenties most affected people may need a wheelchair, and by their mid forties nearly all are unable to walk. The symptoms of FA are slowly progressive. The unsteadiness usually results in the inability to walk within 8 to 10 years following onset of symptoms. During the course of the disease, leg muscles continue to weaken, and a wheelchair is the only sensible means of getting around when this stage of the disease is reached.
People can then maintain general independence for a considerable time.
The time however varies greatly and some people remain mobile for much longer. Sometimes walking is abnormal from the start. The diagnosis is made on the basis of history taking and a detailed neurological examination. Various tests, including the ECG and electrical nerve conductions tests, provide useful supplementary information for the doctor. There is no specific blood or other test for FA at present.