Staying healthy with Rett Syndrome

Historically, Rett Syndrome has been viewed as a degenerative condition with a poor prognosis. But recent research has shown that people with Rett Syndrome can live into their 50’s with adequate medical care.

Below is some information which can help children, young people and adults with Rett Syndrome safe and healthy until better treatments become available.

This information includes links to the most up to date guidance and services which can help manage specific symptoms, such as respiratory issues, constipation and sleep difficulties.

 

There are many things you can do to prevent illness and manage symptoms of Rett syndrome

Whilst there are still no approved treatments for Rett syndrome in the UK, there are many things you can do to manage symptoms. The most important thing is to keep your child as healthy as possible until emerging treatments become available and accessible to them. We’re working every day to make this happen as soon as possible. The resources listed above and the health information videos on the link below can help you with the management of symptoms. We are always here if you have questions. Email us: [email protected] or get in touch via any social media channel.

Fold-out Rett syndrome medical alert card showing emergency medical information, common health considerations, and a detachable alert card for healthcare professionals.

Rett syndrome Emergency Medical Alert Card

We’ve developed the Rett syndrome Emergency Alert Card to convey the top line, most critical information about Rett syndrome to A&E staff in a crisis situation.

The card is credit card sized so it can be carried at all times so that it can be on hand in an emergency to help identify issues, improve care and potentially save lives.

Emergency health plans and/or hospital passports work well when alert cards cannot convey enough information or when there are specific issues affecting a patient which need to be highlighted.

This alert card provides:

  • Top line information about baseline presentation in Rett syndrome
  • Common acute illnesses and infections in Rett Syndrome
  • Other key considerations such as which medications to use with caution
  • Emphasis that research shows that survival into the 5th decade is typical in Rett

To get your Alert Card, you must be registered on the Rett Registry UK. Email us here to let us know if you have not received your card within a week of registering [email protected]

Young girl in a wheelchair wearing a winter hat and feeding tube sits beside a smiling young woman at an outdoor picnic table.

Respiratory issues in Rett syndrome

One of the most common and difficult issues for people with Rett syndrome is trouble with breathing. Respiratory health plays a major role in overall well-being, as breathing problems can lead to discomfort, frequent infections, and hospital stays if not managed well.

Take a closer look at why respiratory issues are so common in Rett syndrome, what can go wrong, and the steps you can take to help manage them. With the right support and monitoring, many breathing difficulties can be reduced—helping your child stay as healthy and comfortable as possible.

 

Person holding a Rett Syndrome Health Checklist booklet produced by the Rett Disorders Alliance UK.

Rett Syndrome Health Checklist

The Rett Disorders Alliance UK (Reverse Rett, Rett UK and FOXG1) published the UK Rett Disorders Rett Syndrome Health Checklist in 2019. The Health Checklist provides information to help with symptom identification and management, including suggestions for drugs which may help and those which may cause difficulties for people with Rett Syndrome. There are also links to relevant research papers, case studies and best practice guidance.

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