Prader-Willi Syndrome

Summary

This article discusses the genetic disorder Prader-Willi syndrome and how physicians commonly misdiagnose it. It lists the symptoms and complications that can occur when a loved one has Prader-Willi syndrome.

Prader-Willi Syndrome

Although it is considered to be a rare genetic disorder, Prader-Willi syndrome still affects thousands of Americans and requires extensive medical treatment. Prader-Willi syndrome is usually present at the time of birth and results in an overwhelming amount of physical, mental and behavioral problems. Most individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome are unable to control the amount of food they consume due to always feeling a constant sense of hunger, therefore many individuals with this disease have trouble controlling their weight which leads to obesity and many health related problems connected to obesity. Failure to properly identify Prader-Willi syndrome can lead to many other serious health issues and complications and even death. The most trusted physicians can incorrectly diagnose Prader-Willi syndrome and cause you or your loved ones unnecessary pain and suffering. In the Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale and Phoenix area there are a variety of cases where medical negligence was shown to be present when a doctor diagnosed Prader-Willi syndrome in a later stage. If you suspect medical negligence in your doctor’s diagnosis of Prader-Willi syndrome, contacting a Phoenix AZ personal injury attorney is your best option for compensation.

An individual who is diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome can experience a variety of symptoms immediately within their first year of life. Some symptoms include:

Symptoms

  • Poor muscle tone
  • Distinct facial features – almond shaped eyes, narrowing of the head at the temples, thin upper lip
  • Delayed motor development
  • Slower mental development
  • Skeletal abnormalities
  • Rapid weight gain
  • Poor sucking reflex when feeding
  • Lack of eye coordination
  • General poor responsiveness

Prader-Willi Syndrome can cause a variety of life threatening complications. These complications can lead to extensive and sometimes lifelong treatments and medications. Some of these complications include:

Health Complications

  • Diabetes
  • Obesity
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Sleep apnea
  • Sterility
  • Osteoporosis
  • Arthritis

The signs of Prader-Willi syndrome are mostly seen at birth. The baby will appear small and floppy and there also other laboratory tests that can be run in order to confirm the baby has Prader-Willi syndrome. The doctors have a responsibility to be aware of how the baby is behaving to and run tests under the slightest suspicion of such a serious disorder.

Contact a Phoenix AZ Personal Injury Attorney

When your loved one is diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome, it can be very emotional difficult to deal with. Individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome require an extensive amount of care and patience, which can be overwhelming for any family. The costs of treatments for Prader-Willi syndrome vary for each case. If you suspect medical negligence or misdiagnosis on the part of your doctor, you may want to contact an Arizona personal injury attorney to discuss your case. An Arizona personal injury lawyer can handle your case with the sensitivity and care to stand up for you and your loved ones against medical malpractice. For more information: www.solomonrelihan.com