10 Prader Willi Syndrome Symptoms

By james

Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky

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Prader-Willi syndrome is an uncommon condition that causes a range of physical and mental problems. It is a genetic disorder that is caused by irregularities with chromosome 15.

Patients with the condition can expect to have a normal life expectancy, provided they are able to manage the symptoms that are associated with the syndrome. There is no known cure for the condition, but treatment is available that can help limit its impact on individuals.

Newborn babies will often need to be supervised closely to ensure they get the nutrition they need to thrive and survive. Some patients may need to undergo surgery to help correct problems caused by the condition. Below are 10 symptoms of Prader-Willi syndrome.

Symptom #1: Weak Suckling Reflex

Newborn babies are able to suck on their mother’s nipples instinctively. This is important because they need to start taking on the nutrition they get from their mother’s milk quickly. Nutrition is especially important for very young children because it is a time of their life when they will be growing and developing quickly.

Babies with Prader-Willi syndrome, however, are likely to have a weak suckling reflex. This makes it harder for them to feed, and this can cause their development to suffer. The weaker suckling reflex is caused by decreased muscle tone in and around the mouth.