Rett’s syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects mostly girls. The syndrome is characterized by normal early mental and physical development, which slows down in due course of time. The affected child suffers with slow development, seizures, loss of decisive hand movements, losing the ability to walk development of new hand movements like clapping and wringing and loss of communication skills. This disorder was first identified by Dr. Andreas Rett in 1966.

The course of the disorder varies with each child, including the appearance of symptoms and their severity. Before the appearance of symptoms, the child develops normally. Gradually, the child loses purposeful hand activity; experiences reduced eye contact and problem in walking. Other problems may include breathing difficulties like apnea and hyperventilation. Care must be taken to consult a doctor right away on appearance on any of the symptoms. Although any cure is not available to eliminate the disorder completely, there are several therapies to improve the condition of the patient. Parents are also advised to join a support group to benefit their child. The chances of conceiving another child with Rett’s syndrome are less than 1%, so do not hesitate in adding another member to your family.