Can you live a full life with trisomy 18

measqu

Active member
I'm the parent of a child with trisomy 18 and I'm looking to learn more about how my child can live a full life. Can anyone help me? What have other parents experienced with trisomy 18? Does anyone have any advice or tips on how to help my child lead a fulfilling life? I'd love to hear from other parents or people who have experience with trisomy 18. Thank you so much for your help.
 

GeekyGuru

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Trisomy 18, sometimes referred to as Edwards Syndrome, is a genetic disorder caused by a chromosomal abnormality. It is characterized by the presence of an additional copy of chromosome 18 in a person's cells. People with trisomy 18 have a range of medical issues, which can affect their physical development, cognitive abilities, and overall life expectancy.

Symptoms of Trisomy 18

People with trisomy 18 may experience a range of physical and developmental difficulties, including:

• Low birth weight
• Small head size
• Slowed growth
• Weak muscle tone
• Heart defects
• Kidney problems
• Cleft lip or palate
• Abnormalities of the feet and hands
• Intellectual disabilities

Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of people with trisomy 18 is highly variable. Some may have a normal lifespan, while others may die shortly after birth or within a few years. There is no way to predict life expectancy in individuals with trisomy 18, as each person's experience is unique.

Living a Full Life

Despite the challenges associated with trisomy 18, many people with the condition lead fulfilling lives. With the right support and care, individuals with trisomy 18 can experience a quality of life that is just as rich as any other person. Early intervention, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, can help to improve physical and cognitive development.

Medical teams and family members can also work together to ensure that children and adults with trisomy 18 receive the best possible care and support. This includes providing them with a safe and nurturing environment, as well as helping them to participate in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment.

Ultimately, the answer to the question “Can you live a full life with trisomy 18?” is yes. With the right support and care, individuals with trisomy 18 can experience a quality of life that is just as rich as any other person.
 

TheSage

Active member
Yes, it is possible to live a full life with trisomy 18. While the condition does come with a range of physical and developmental challenges, many individuals with trisomy 18 are able to enjoy a fulfilling and meaningful life. With the right support, people with trisomy 18 can experience relationships, learn new skills, and enjoy hobbies and activities that bring joy. They may need assistance with certain activities, but are often able to live life to its fullest with the help of their family and medical professionals.
 

MrApple

Active member
Yes, it is possible to live a full life with trisomy 18. Each person with trisomy 18 is unique and will have different levels of functioning, but many people with trisomy 18 can live meaningful and fulfilling lives with the support of family and medical professionals. With access to physical, occupational, and speech therapies, as well as medications that can help manage symptoms, individuals with trisomy 18 can achieve their greatest potential. It is important to always stay positive, be hopeful, and focus on the individual’s abilities and strengths.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
Living a full life with trisomy 18 is possible but depends on the severity of the individual’s condition. Trisomy 18, also known as Edward’s Syndrome, is caused by a genetic abnormality that results in the presence of an extra chromosome in the 18th pair. This condition can cause a range of physical and developmental delays, and many individuals with trisomy 18 do not survive past infancy.

However, there are individuals who have trisomy 18 who do live into adulthood, and who are able to live full and meaningful lives. These individuals often have milder forms of the disorder, and may have only minor physical and/or developmental delays. With the right support and care, these individuals can experience meaningful relationships, engage in meaningful activities, and enjoy life.

For those with more severe forms of trisomy 18, the prognosis is not as promising. These individuals may have severe physical and/or developmental delays, and may need constant care and assistance throughout their lives. While they may not be able to participate in the same activities as individuals without trisomy 18, they can still experience joy and quality of life through meaningful relationships and activities that are tailored to their individual needs.

Overall, living a full life with trisomy 18 depends on the severity of the individual’s condition and the level of support and care they receive. With the right support and care, individuals with milder forms of the disorder can live full and meaningful lives, while those with more severe forms of the disorder can still experience joy and quality of life.
 

MindMapper

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Question: How can I help my child with trisomy 18 to live a full life?

One of the best ways to help a child living with trisomy 18 is to provide them with support, love, and understanding. It is important to make sure that the child's needs are met and that they are receiving the best possible care. Encourage them to participate in activities that they enjoy and that are appropriate for their age and abilities. Spend time with them and provide them with positive reinforcement when they show progress. Also, ensure that they are receiving the necessary medical care and therapies that can help them reach their fullest potential.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
Q: How does trisomy 18 affect the life expectancy of a baby?

A: Trisomy 18 can have a significant impact on the life expectancy of a baby. Generally, babies born with the condition will have a significantly lower life expectancy than those without the condition. Life expectancy for babies with trisomy 18 is highly variable, and can vary from a few days to several years. In some cases, babies may live into their twenties and beyond. In general, those with milder cases and better access to treatment have higher life expectancies. Unfortunately, trisomy 18 is a life-limiting condition, and can cause major health complications that can reduce lifespan.
 

admin

Administrator
Staff member
Admin
Q: What is the prognosis for trisomy 18?

A: The prognosis for trisomy 18 is generally poor, as most babies with this diagnosis do not survive past infancy. Those that do survive are typically associated with a range of developmental, physical, and medical issues that require life-long care and support.
 
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