How to Treat Prader-Willi Syndrome?
There is no permanent cure for Prader-Willi syndrome. However, doctors may recommend certain treatments to help improve the symptoms, and improve their quality of life.
Infancy and childhood
Your doctor may recommend dietary changes to help control overeating in infants. Dietary changes may also help with supervision. Your doctor may prescribe certain drugs to support hormones, such as:
- Growth hormone [6]
- Human chorionic gonadotropin
- Estrogen
- Testosterone
- Behavioral therapy
- Speech therapy
- Physical therapy
- Learning support
Adulthood
Adults with Prader-Willi syndrome cannot live independently. People who don’t live with their parents or a roommate may find it difficult to live with the condition. However, living with someone or staying in a supportive environment, such as a group home. In residential settings, adults who have been diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome can socialize, work at supervised jobs, and get the right medical care they require.
If your child is about to get to adulthood, you can reach out to your doctor to talk about how to live with the condition. Your doctor may also recommend an alternative guardian to help with the condition.
Lifestyle Changes
It is important for people with the Prader-Willi syndrome to get regular medical checkups. Your doctor may also recommend other measures that you can take at home to help you live with the condition, such as:
- Engaging in regular exercise and movement to promote a moderate weight
- Consuming a varied diet with scheduled meals
- Reducing free access to food to help with binging
- Structuring the day to help with behavior issues
- Leaning into support groups for resources