Rett syndrome is an incurable disorder and its treatment aims to reduce the symptoms and improve the child’s quality of life. Although it is not always possible for a child with Rett syndrome to lead “normal” life, complex therapy may help achieve some improvements.
Treatment of Rett syndrome requires regular medical care and the help of a wide range of specialists. The main treatment options are described below.
- Physical therapy can help improve the movements and mobility of a child, maintain walking skills and coordination. The use of braces and/or casts can help children with scoliosis. Parents should pay attention to their child’s sitting posture to prevent further curving of their spine.
- Occupational therapy is used to help girls perform daily living activities, including bathing, dressing and eating. It may improve the ability of a child to use hands purposefully. Sometimes a hand splint is used to control repetitive hand movements.
- Speech therapy, which involves learning of nonverbal ways of communicating, helps improve communication skills.
- Medications are used in some cases to control seizures and to treat movement problems, such as muscle stiffness.
- There are also some alternative therapies that have been tried in patients with Rett syndrome. These include acupuncture, yoga, massage, hydrotherapy, music therapy. Although the effectiveness of these treatments have not been proven scientifically, some parents report good results.
- Most patients need nutritional support, as proper nutrition is essential for normal growth and mental development. High-calorie well-balanced diet is usually recommended. A feeding tube or other feeding aid may be needed. A high-calorie diet can help increase weight and height, which may improve social interactions.
Unfortunately, Rett syndrome is a lifelong condition. Although some symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and seizures, may improve over time, there is a gradual worsening of condition. Most patients rarely can live independently and need constant care throughout their lives. The lifespan of patients with Rett syndrome is shortened, but many of them live into adulthood and beyond.
It is usually mentally and physically challenging for parents to care for a child with Rett syndrome. For that reason, parents are also recommended to look after their own health and wellbeing. Most parents need social and psychological support.
Visit youritablets.com if you want to learn more about Rett syndrome treatment and management. Here you will find a comprehensive overview of this condition.
Site about childhood diseases 