Care for Symptoms of Fragile X Syndrome in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV
Fragile X is an inherited developmental disorder that is the most commonly inherited developmental condition and the most commonly inherited intellectual disability in the US. In addition, more boys are born with fragile X than girls.
The signs and symptoms of fragile X syndrome can range from very mild to quite severe, with the most common ones including:
- Large ears
- Long face and prominent forehead
- Large testicles after puberty
- Flat feet
- Soft skin
- Signs and symptoms of autism spectrum, attention deficit disorder (ADD), or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Learning disabilities
- Difficulty with speech and communication
- Extra sensitivity to noise, light, and texture
It is possible to have the mutation that causes fragile X without any of the signs of the syndrome. This means that you could be a carrier of the fragile X syndrome.
Receive a reliable diagnosis and caring treatment plan for fragile X syndrome in Las Vegas or Henderson, NV, from the neurologists at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican hospitals. Call (702) 616-4900 or use our online Find a Doctor tool.
Causes of Fragile X Syndrome
Fragile X syndrome is genetic disorder that comes from inheriting an abnormal (mutated) copy of a specific gene called FMR1 from either the mother or father. FMR1 is located on the X chromosome. The defective FMR1 gene impairs the ability of nerve cells to relay messages to and from the brain.
Females have two X chromosomes — one from their mother and one from their father — so females born with fragile X have both a defective and normal version of the gene. However, men have only one X chromosome and one FMR1 gene. For these and other reasons, the signs of fragile X syndrome vary because the underlying genetic defect and nerve cell dysfunction vary from person to person.
Treatment of Fragile X Syndrome at Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican Hospitals
There is no cure for fragile X syndrome, but treatment can help manage the symptoms and behaviors and improve the lives of those with fragile X.
Treatment for fragile X syndrome may include:
- Educational assistance for learning disabilities
- Speech therapy for communication
- Counseling and guidance for families as the child transitions into adulthood
- Behavior therapy or medications for ADHD and other symptoms
- Occupational therapy for sensory issues
While there is no method of preventing fragile X syndrome, if you have family members with the condition and you plan on starting a family, you may want to consider speaking to a genetic counselor to see if your future family may be at risk.
Dignity Health - St. Rose Dominican offers neurological expertise through care and treatment for patients with fragile X syndrome in Las Vegas and Henderson, NV.