Overview

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic condition that affects your child’s metabolism and causes changes to their body and behavior. They have severe low muscle tone and poor feeding during early infancy, followed by a tremendous appetite that develops between 2 and 6 years of age. This can lead to severe obesity if excessive eating isn’t managed.

PWS typically also causes a delay in childhood milestones and puberty. Although rare, life-threatening complications can occur and include respiratory illnesses, obesity-related cardiovascular problems, sleep apnea and diabetes.

Who does Prader-Willi syndrome affect?

Anyone can develop Prader-Willi syndrome because it’s a genetic condition that happens randomly when reproductive cells form. In rare cases, you can inherit the condition if it runs in your biological family history.

How common is Prader-Willi syndrome?

Throughout the world, PWS affects an estimated 1 in 10,000 to 30,000 people.

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Symptoms

When to see a doctor

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Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.
The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Diabetes.
  • Heart failure.
  • Some types of heart valve disease.
Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:
  • Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
  • Don't smoke or use tobacco.
  • Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
  • Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
  • Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Reduce and manage stress.


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