Prader-Willi Syndrome Treatment

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder that can be found in any individual in the world. The condition occurs when the genes on the chromosome 15 (q 11-13) are not expressed or get deleted due to unknown reasons. This disease is considered as one of the rarest diseases in the world. However, when talking about its comparison with other genetic disorders, it is found that the Prader-Willi syndrome is a lot common than other genetic disorders.

Causes and Symptoms of Prader-Willi Syndrome

Although it is known that the disorder arises due to chromosomal abnormality; the cause of such a genetic error still remains unknown. Scientists and researchers believe that genetic error or abnormality caused during conception leads to this condition in babies. Secondly, severe injury to some parts of the brain or the hypothalamus can also lead to this condition. It is also believed that this condition sometimes misses the parent, and can be found in the baby. But, it should be noted that this condition is not inherited. One of the most important point to note about Prader-Willi syndrome symptoms is that these symptoms are observed right from the fetal stage. A reduced fetal movement, lethargy, sleepiness, difficulty in feeding, slower intellectual and physical growth, etc. are some of the signs and symptoms of this condition. Excessive weight gain and non-development of sexual organs (often leading to infertility) are the classic Prader-Willi syndrome symptoms.

Treatment of Prader-Willi Syndrome

Diagnosis of this condition is very essential as an early diagnosis and treatment can increase the life expectancy. Due to the lack of knowledge or awareness about this disorder, the Prader-Willi syndrome is often diagnosed as Down's syndrome (due to the similarities in the symptoms). Therefore, it is essential to undertake genetic testing if any abnormalities are found in the fetal stage. Parents should also be aware that if one of their child suffers from this condition, there are high chances that his/her next sibling may suffer from the condition. It should also be noted that there is NO permanent cure for this genetic disorder, neither can it be reversed. However, there are several treatment methods which have been successful in reducing the severity of the symptoms.

As stunted or slow growth is one of the symptoms, the treatment includes use of growth hormone, also known as the Human Growth Hormone (HGH). This hormone helps in treating the growth abnormalities in children suffering from this disorder. HGH also helps in increasing muscle mass and controlling obesity.

Secondly, Prader-Willi syndrome treatment also concentrates on checking obesity and bringing weight under control. To be very specific, people suffering from this disorder can live a normal life and have a favorable life expectancy as long as their weight is under control. Therefore, the treatment methods also involves frequent and ongoing supervision on diet, abstaining from fatty food. These people, although intellectually slower, can live a normal life with the help and support of parents and caretakers.

While summing up the above, we can say that treating Prader-Willi syndrome is possible only through the growth hormone and by controlling obesity. Lastly, also note that alleviating of symptoms is possible through early diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, as parents, you need to watch out for any and every change observed in your kid and consult the doctor on the same immediately. Take care!