When your child is diagnosed with 22Q11, it is important to determine as early as possible the characteristics and symptoms of the disorder in your child. As a result you would then know what plan of action was needed to give your child the best quality of life as possible.

Unfortunately the effects of the deletion of chromosome 22 differ with each child and also vary over time in each individual. Some symptoms only tend to occur later in life such as schizophrenia, other mental health issues, thyroid problems and other blood related problems.

Heart problems affect up to 75% of 22Q11 sufferers so heart surgery will most likely be conducted to fix the problems. Learning difficulties occur in up to 65% of sufferers and relate to delays in speech, delays in reaching milestones, attention deficit disorder ADD and poor concentration levels. These generally can be treated. The earlier treatment starts for 22Q11 sufferers, the better it will be for the child. Treatment is conducted by  qualified therapists and specialist intervention services to help your child catch up with their peers.

Any feeding problems experienced  can also benefit from specialized support.

Problems with immune system malfunctions with 22Q11 can be treated with transfusions, vaccinations and other specialized interventions.

There are such a wide range of characteristics and symptoms associated with Digeorge 22Q11 , and because the symptoms change over the course of the life of the sufferer, the options available for your child will consequently vary over time. There is a lot that can be done for your child and as they grow older to help them live as normal a life as possible, so do not get too alarmed. Treatment is a process that will evolve over the course of the life of the child and with advances in technology, there will be significant quality of life improvements for 22Q11 sufferers.

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