Thursday, November 7th, 2024

What is Prader Willy Syndrome? This disease suppresses appetite since childhood, changes the child’s nature


Some children do not feel hungry in childhood. But when they are two years old, they eat a lot. Due to this they have to listen to scoldings from their parents. Even their friends tease them by calling them Khabbu. The child does not do this intentionally, rather he/she may be suffering from Prader Willi syndrome.

This is a genetic disease that affects the child’s metabolism in childhood. This causes many changes in the child’s behavior and body and their muscles also do not grow. According to Dr. Mitesh Shetty, Head of the Department of Medical Genetics at Manipal Hospital, if the symptoms of this genetic disease are identified early, then it can be managed to a great extent.

What is Prader-Willi Syndrome?

Prader Willi Syndrome is a rare disease, which is related to the metabolism of the child. In this, the child remains hungry. But as the age increases, he/she loses control over eating. Especially if the child is between 2 to 6 years, he/she can eat more than required. This condition causes obesity in him/her. Dr. Shetty explains that in this disease the height of children remains short, so they are given growth hormone. This not only increases their height but also strengthens the muscles and reduces fat.

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Symptoms of Prader-Willi Syndrome

Symptoms of Prader-Willi Syndrome

– The child feels lethargic and tired all the time
– Loss of appetite in childhood
– Difficulty in feeding
– Feeling hungry even after eating a full meal
– lack of development of genitalia
– No height increase

What not to do in Prader Willi Syndrome?

Risks of Prader-Willi Syndrome

Risks of Prader-Willi Syndrome

The risk of this disease may not be visible in childhood, but as children grow up, the risk of many diseases can increase. These include heart disease, obesity, diabetes, lungs and sleep related problems. Parents of such children should keep an eye on their eating and drinking habits right from the beginning.

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What can be done?

What can be done?

– Keep an eye on the child’s diet.

– Feed them low calorie food.

– Children should be given diet rich in protein and Vitamin D.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Take counseling before planning for a second child

Take counseling before planning for a second child

Since this is a genetic problem, if the first child has this problem, it is good for the parents to take genetic counseling before planning for the second child. This will greatly reduce the risk of the disease in the second child.

Photo Credit: Freepik

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. It cannot in any way be a substitute for any medicine or treatment. Always contact your doctor for more information.

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