Rett syndrome facts for kids
Rett syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that mostly affects girls. It is a neurological condition, meaning it impacts the brain and nervous system. Girls with Rett syndrome often have unique challenges.
This condition affects the brain's grey matter. This part of the brain helps with movement, memory, and feelings. Girls with Rett syndrome may have small hands and feet. They might also develop scoliosis, which is a curve in the spine. Some girls may also have cognitive impairment, meaning they learn and understand things differently.
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What is Rett Syndrome?
Rett syndrome is a brain disorder. It is caused by a change in a specific gene called MECP2. This gene is found on the X chromosome. Because girls have two X chromosomes and boys have one, it affects girls much more often. Boys with this gene change usually have very severe problems and often do not live long.
How it Affects Girls
Girls with Rett syndrome often develop normally at first. This usually lasts for about 6 to 18 months. Then, they start to lose some skills they had learned. For example, they might stop using their hands purposefully. They might also have problems with walking and talking.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Girls with Rett syndrome show several common signs. One key sign is losing the ability to use their hands. They might make repeated hand movements, like wringing or clapping. These movements are often not controlled.
- Hand movements: Girls often make repetitive hand movements. These can look like washing, wringing, or clapping.
- Speech problems: They might lose the ability to speak. Some girls can make sounds, but forming words is hard.
- Walking difficulties: Walking can be unsteady or difficult. Some girls may need help to walk.
- Breathing issues: Breathing patterns can be unusual. This might include holding their breath or breathing very fast.
- Sleep problems: Many girls have trouble sleeping.
- Scoliosis: A curve in the spine is common. This may need special treatment.
- Seizures: Some girls may experience seizures. These are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain.
Living with Rett Syndrome
Rett syndrome affects each girl differently. The severity of symptoms can vary. There is no cure for Rett syndrome yet. However, many treatments can help manage the symptoms. These treatments improve the quality of life for girls and their families.
Support and Therapies
Girls with Rett syndrome benefit from different therapies. These therapies help them with daily activities.
- Physical therapy: This helps with movement and walking. It can also help with scoliosis.
- Occupational therapy: This focuses on hand use and daily tasks. It helps girls learn to do things for themselves.
- Speech therapy: This helps with communication. It can teach ways to communicate without speaking.
- Medication: Medicines can help with seizures or sleep problems.
- Special education: Schools provide special support. This helps girls learn in ways that suit them.
Family support is also very important. Families often work with doctors and therapists. They learn how to best care for their child. Research continues to find new treatments. Scientists hope to find a cure for Rett syndrome in the future.
Images for kids
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The location of the gene responsible for Rett syndrome
See also
In Spanish: Síndrome de Rett para niños
