All About Prader-Willi Syndrome

What is Prader-Willi Syndrome?

Prader-willi syndrome is a disorder in which someone has a compulsive desire to eat. People with this condition are often short in stature, have light skin, poor muscle tone, suffer from mental retardation and are frequently obese. They are typically very friendly, but frequently find it hard to control their emotions if frustration or stress occurs.

The insatiable appetite those with prader-willi syndrome have is a genetic disorder present at birth. Due to a defect found in the hypothalamus, a person with prader-willi syndrome can never achieve a state of complete fullness and will always have an uncontrollable urge to eat. Excessive eating habits of those with prader-willi syndrome are often monitored to prevent severe health complications. Eating disorder treatment may be available for people suffering from this disorder and several others.

Who has Prader-Willi Syndrome?

Prader-willi syndrome can affect people of all ethnic backgrounds and is common in both boys and girls. This syndrome affects one person out of approximately 12,000 to 15,000 people.

It is uncertain as to whether this syndrome is genetic or not, but it is confirmed that this disorder is congenital, meaning it begins at birth. This condition is brought about by the lack of genes in chromosome 15.

Ten Common Signs of Prader-Willi Syndrome

  1. Constant eating
  2. Stealing food
  3. Picking at the skin
  4. Abnormal eating patterns, such as eating garbage, pet food and frozen foods
  5. Difficulty sleeping
  6. Never completely full after eating
  7. Hiding food
  8. Frequent loss of temper
  9. Strict eating rules are in place
  10. Difficulties with learning

Risks/Complications of Prader-Willi Syndrome

The following are a few complications that can occur with the presence of prader-willi syndrome:

  • Obesity
  • Mental retardation
  • Almond-shaped eyes
  • Speech impairments
  • Short stature
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Weak muscles
  • Infertility
  • Poor sexual development
  • Obsessive compulsive disorder
  • Hypotonia
  • High narrow forehead
  • Fair skin, easily bruised
  • High tolerance for pain

Complications of obesity as a result of an eating disorder can be damaging to the health of a person. Eating disorder residential centers offer treatment for obese individuals seeking treatment for an eating disorder. These eating disorder treatment centers desire to give full recovery to their residents and prevent further complications from arising.

Disclaimer


This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for medical advice. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and this content is to provide an overall understanding of substance use disorders. These disorders are very complex, and this post does not take into account the unique circumstances for every individual. For specific questions about your health needs or that of a loved one, seek the help of a healthcare professional.