How long do people with Rett syndrome usually live?
How long do people with Rett syndrome usually live?
While it is known that Rett syndrome shortens lifespan, not much is known about specific life expectancy rates for people with Rett syndrome. It generally depends on the age when symptoms first begin and their severity. On average, most individuals with the condition survive into their 40s or 50s.
How does Rett syndrome affect a person’s life?
Rett syndrome is a severe condition of the nervous system. It is almost only seen in females, and affects all body movement. Rett syndrome may cause speech problems (such as inability to learn to speak, or loss of speech), difficulty walking or loss of the ability to walk, and loss of purposeful hand use.
How long can a child live with Rett syndrome?
What Is the Life Expectancy for Rett Syndrome? The average age of death for patients with Rett syndrome is about 24 years and in most cases, death is sudden and often secondary to pneumonia. Risk factors for sudden death include: Seizures.
Can people with Rett syndrome live on their own?
Needing lifelong care and assistance with activities of daily living. Shortened life span. Although most people with Rett syndrome live into adulthood, they may not live as long as the average person because of heart problems and other health complications.
What causes death in Rett syndrome?
The cause of death of patients with Rett syndrome is usually related to seizures, pneumonia, malnutrition, and accidents. The frequency and severity of seizures are closely linked to life expectancy with seizures increasing the risk of death. Anti-epileptic drugs can be used to control seizures and reduce this risk.
Is Rett syndrome a disability?
Rett syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects brain development, resulting in severe mental and physical disability. It is estimated to affect about 1 in 12,000 girls born each year and is only rarely seen in boys.