Genetic diseases or disorders are caused due to an abnormality within the genetics of a person. The genetic abnormality can range from a discrete mutation in the single base of a DNA of a single gene to a gross chromosome abnormality. There are many cases of genetic disorders in children and some of them are pretty rare and the majority of children inherit the genetic disorder from their parents.
When children acquire mutation or changes within a pre-existing gene, it can give birth to many other disorders. Genetic disorders can also have a massive impact on child development and psychology.
What are the signs of genetic disorders?
Given below is a list of signs that proves you might have a genetic disorder. You will not get in touch with a doctor with immediate effect with your child having at least two of the characteristics from the list below. Check it out.
- Different colored eyes
- Ear abnormalities
- Unusual body odor
- Unusually shaped eyes
- Misshapen teeth
- Excessive body hair
- White patches of hair
- Decreased or increased sweating
- Stiff or loose joints
- Extra or missing teeth
- Webbed toes or fingers
- Unusual birthmarks
- Small or large tongue
Understanding the importance of genetic disorders counseling
Genetic counseling is one of the best ways through which you can identify whether you have a child with a genetic disorder or whether you will develop one. Through the process of Genetic Counselling, it will give you the chance to make some sense of the information that you gain and put it into context for your child. The counseling will be performed by a genetic counselor or a geneticist, who will provide a proper explanation on the cause of the disorder and the availability of testing.
Apart from that, you will also gain information on medical treatment and management, and prognosis. The sessions for genetic counseling will last for at least an hour or longer, as it depends on the complexity of your child’s disorder.
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The benefits of genetic counseling for Genetic Disorders
Through the process of genetic counseling, it will enable you to get appropriate treatment for your child. The counselors will help all the parents to have an excellent understanding of the significance of genetic disorders and within the context of familial, cultural, and personal situations.
The counseling will also provide you with information on genetic testing and all the other related procedures. Apart from that, proper counseling sessions will enable you to receive plenty of assistance from the counselor. He/she will help you in the area of decision-making and provide you with plenty of advice. Doing so will give you the chance to make proper preparations to deal with the genetic disorder or condition of your child.
The Takeaway
Genetic disorders are something that occurs in individuals across the globe. There are various types of genetic conditions, and each of them has its own unique symptoms. To diagnose a disorder, your child needs to go through genetic testing or a physical examination. This will help in identifying the type of disorder your child has. You can get in touch with a geneticist to learn and understand the type of treatment ideal for your child’s condition.
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