Mental retardation (MR) is a developmental disability.
It is the most common developmental disorder.
A person who is mentally retarded has a low IQ (low intelligence) and has
problems adjusting to everyday life.
Not all children with MR act the same. It can be mild, moderate, or severe.
Each child with MR has different strengths and weaknesses.
What causes it?
The cause of many cases is unknown.
It can be caused by injury, disease, infection, or parts of the brain not
working right.
It can be caused before a child is born, during the birthing process, soon
after birth, or during childhood.
Genetics can cause MR. Genes from the parents affect how the baby's brain
works.
Drug or alcohol use by a pregnant mother can cause MR in her child.
Who can get it?
Anyone can get MR.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Symptoms appear before the child is 18 years old.
Children with MR have low intelligence and have problems functioning in
everyday life.
They score very low on a test that measures mental ability.
They learn more slowly than other children their same age.
Children with MR often have other physical and emotional problems.
They may have trouble hearing, seeing, or speaking.
They may have problems communicating and socializing (having conversations,
making wise judgments, etc.).
They often have other disorders.
Some children with MR feel depressed because they know they are not like
other children their age.
If the child can't talk, she may show her feelings by acting out or she
may become withdrawn.
How is it treated?
Treatment works best if the child is diagnosed with MR at an early age and
it is treated right away.
The goal of treatment is to help the child learn how to be a part of family
and community life.
Most children with MR can learn and some can lead independent lives.
In most states, children with MR have a right to special education services
at school. Talk to your doctor and teachers.
Your child should be tested to see what her strengths and weaknesses are.
Health care workers and teachers will use your child's strengths to teach
her more.
Your doctor can help you get your child tested. She will need to be seen
by many different professionals.
Some of the professionals can help your child with education. Others can
help with speech, vision, and hearing. Others can help with physical therapy
or counseling.
Treatment works best when the child's family and all of the professionals
work together.
Some medications may help your child.
In some cases, a child with MR may need to be placed in a special home where
she can get special care.
Professionals can help the whole family, not just the child with MR. Parents,
brothers, sisters, and other people close to children with MR also need support.
How long does it last?
MR can usually not be cured, but many children can learn new things.
Can it be prevented?
Some cases of MR can be prevented.
Pregnant mothers should not drink alcohol or use drugs.
Pregnant mothers should have regular doctor's appointments during pregnancy
to check their health.
Protect your child from head injuries. Children should wear helmets when
riding bikes, skating, etc. Children should be placed in car
seats or use seatbelts.
If your child shows symptoms of meningitis,
take her to the doctor immediately.
See your doctor if your baby has jaundice (yellowish
color to the skin). Continue to watch her carefully.
Some counselors may be able to tell parents what their chances are of having
a child with MR.
Doctors can give babies blood tests soon after birth to see if they have
certain conditions that could lead to MR. If treated soon enough, MR can be
prevented.
When should I call the doctor?
Call your doctor if you think your child shows symptoms of mental retardation.
Call your doctor if your child with MR shows symptoms of depression,
such as changes in sleeping or eating patterns.
Call your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's treatment
or condition.
Quick Answers
Mental retardation (MR) is a developmental disability.
It can be caused by injury, disease, infection, or parts of the brain not
working right. In some cases, the cause is not known.
Babies born to mothers who drank alcohol during pregnancy are more likely
to have MR.
Children with MR have low intelligence and have problems functioning in
everyday life.
The goal of treatment is to help the child learn how to be a part of family
and community life.
MR can usually not be cured, but many children can learn new things.
To prevent brain injuries that could cause MR, protect your child from head
injuries. Have your child wear helmets when biking and use seatbelts or car
seats in cars.
Call your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your child's treatment
or condition.
References
American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Children who are Mentally
Retarded. 1997 (cited 2002 March 13). URL: http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/retarded.htm
National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. Mental
Retardation. CDC. 2002 March 01 (cited 2002 march 13). URL: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dd/ddmr.htm
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