Degenerative Developmental Disabilities
Rett Syndrome is just one example of degenerative developmental disabilities - birth defects that have lasting effect on a child's life. The disability may not be evident until the child gets beyond infancy - and can cause a range of physical and mental problems. Some children lose certain skills, especially communication skills - as occurs with Rett Syndrome. Special therapies can help, as well as special education classes and counseling.
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- Q Are degenerative developmental disabilities life threatening?
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While degenerative developmental disabilities are often serious and some do increase the risk of death, people with these disorders can live to become adults. For example, children with Rett syndrome can live to be 40, 50, or even older. If disability is... Full Answer
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- Q What are common complications of degenerative developmental disabilities?
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Degenerative developmental disabilities can have serious complications. When development is impaired, both physical and mental disabilities can occur, and these may be severe. Some people who have degenerative developmental disorders may have heart... Full Answer
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- Q Can a genetic test predict degenerative developmental disabilities?
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Although the cause for many degenerative developmental disorders is unknown, some are caused by genetic mutations. In these cases, a person's risk may be able to be assessed using genetic testing. Genetic testing can be accomplished through a blood test. Full Answer
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- Q How are degenerative developmental disabilities diagnosed?
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To be diagnosed with a degenerative developmental disability, a child will often have had normal development for a period of time following birth, with symptoms developing after months or years. A doctor may use this factor, along with symptoms and a... Full Answer
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- Q How do I manage my child's degenerative developmental disability?
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Caring for a child with a degenerative developmental disability can have a major impact on your life, but there are ways you can manage the disease from day to day. It's important to follow doctors' advice regarding treatment such as medication or... Full Answer
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- Q How can I help my child cope with a degenerative developmental disability?
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Following your medical care team's treatment plan and therapy recommendations can help your child cope with a degenerative developmental disability. Physical therapy and occupational therapy may also be very important to your child's well being. If... Full Answer
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- Q Can my pediatrician diagnose degenerative developmental disabilities?
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Your child's pediatrician will check to make sure your child is hitting certain developmental milestones, such as babbling, waving, and speaking. In addition, a pediatrician may observe your child to see if any typical signs of developmental disorders... Full Answer
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- Q Do degenerative developmental disabilities run in families?
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Some degenerative developmental disabilities may run in families. Since some of these conditions are caused by genetic mutations, they may be found among people in the same family. If someone in your family is diagnosed with a degenerative developmental... Full Answer
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- Q What increases the risk of degenerative developmental disabilities?
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The risk factors for many degenerative developmental disabilities are unknown. However, some degenerative developmental disabilities are genetic and run in families. The risk for these inherited conditions are increased by having a family... Full Answer
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- Q Can surgery help treat people with degenerative physical disabilities?
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Sometimes surgery is part of the treatment for degenerative physical disabilities. For example, Rett syndrome may cause heart problems and curvature of the spine. Surgery to improve these physical symptoms may help ease them. Full Answer
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