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July is Fragile X/Martin Bell Awareness Month
Fragile X Syndrome (FXS)
Fragile X syndrome is the leading cause of inherited intellectual disabilities. There are behavioral, physical, intellectual and mental health symptoms. Although there isn’t a cure, medication and therapy can help manage symptoms.
Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is an inherited genetic disorder that causes physical abnormalities, behavioral issues and a wide range of other health problems, including:
- Developmental delays
- Intellectual disabilities
- Learning disabilities
- Anxiety
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
- Autism spectrum disorder
Fragile X syndrome is the most common form of inherited intellectual and developmental disability (IDD). It gets its name because when you look at the X chromosome through a microscope, part of it looks “broken” or “fragile.” Another name for the condition is Martin-Bell syndrome. Common fragile X syndrome symptoms in each category include:
Intelligence issues
- Learning disabilities
- Low intelligence quotient (IQ). Their IQ scores decrease with age
- Delayed early developmental milestones
Mental health problems
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors
Physical features
- A long, narrow face
- A large forehead
- A large jaw
- Large ears
- Crossed eyes (strabismus)
- Very flexible or double-jointed fingers
Fragile X syndrome may cause a range of behavioral issues, like:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Social anxiety and shyness
- Flapping or biting their hands
- Poor eye contact
Before your child’s healthcare provider or a genetic counselor orders a test for fragile X syndrome, they may ask you the following questions:
- How well does your child learn?
- Is your child shy?
- Does your child have sleep problems?
- Is your child anxious?
- Does your child avoid eye contact?
Some people with fragile X syndrome can live independently. Studies show that about 4 in 10 girls and 1 in 10 boys with fragile X syndrome grow up to have a high level of independence.Take your child in to see their pediatrician as soon as you notice the symptoms of fragile X syndrome. Don’t wait, as early intervention is important.
For more information on Fragile X Syndrome, read here.
