Mental retardation is defined by three criteria: First, the person must have had the condition since childhood, or age 18 years or younger. Second, the person has a score of 70 or less on intelligence (IQ) tests. Third, the person has limitations in at least two aspects of living skills, such as: communicationeducation, including reading, writing, and basic mathmotor functionpersonal care, such as bathing, dressing, eating, and toiletingsocial skillsthinking skills, such as decision making, problem solving, and self-directionworking
People with mental retardation have reduced intellectual function. Sometimes it is because the brain has not formed properly. In other cases, the brain was damaged during or after birth.
The following are some of the signs of mental retardation: delayed development of skills such as walking and self carelate development of speech and languagepoor coordination of movements, such as using the fingers to handle small objectspoor school performancesocial and emotional immaturity
Mental retardation can be caused by a many factors, both before and after the child is born. More than 500 genetic disorders can cause mental retardation. Three of the more common are: Down syndromefragile X syndromephenylketonuria (PKU)
The following pregnancy-related problems in the mother can also cause mental retardation in the baby: alcohol, smoking, or drug use during pregnancyenvironmental toxins, such as lead and mercuryTORCH, sexually transmitted, or other infectionsmalnutrition
Birth-related stresses may cause brain injury and result in mental retardation. Premature birth and low birth weight are often associated with mental retardation. Birth trauma and lack of oxygen may cause brain damage.
Childhood infections, toxins, or injuries can also cause mental retardation. These include the following: chickenpox, measles, or pertussis (whooping cough)environmental toxins, such as lead and mercuryhead injurymeningitis or encephalitisnear drowningphysical injuries from seizures
Factors related to poverty and cultural deprivation may also lead to mental retardation: environmental hazardslack of access to or inappropriate medical carelack of nurturing and appropriate stimulationliving conditions that make exposure to diseases more likelypoor nutrition in early childhood
Mental retardation caused by genetic factors often cannot be prevented. Early screening for PKU can identify infants who are at risk. The baby's diet can then be tailored to prevent mental retardation. Some couples may consider genetic counseling if there is a family history of genetic disorders.
Mental retardation can sometimes be prevented by proper prenatal care: avoiding alcohol, drugs, and smoking during pregnancy.exercising and eating a healthy diet during pregnancy.getting regular prenatal checkups and care as needed.
Mental retardation from factors during childhood can be reduced with the following measures: following recommended schedules for well baby visits and childhood shots.removing lead and other toxins from the environment.using car safety seats.following sports safety guidelines to avoid head injuries.providing regular, stimulating contact with other children and adults
The diagnosis of mental retardation begins with a medical history and physical exam. The healthcare professional may order the following additional tests: blood testschromosome analysiscognitive testingcranial CT scan or cranial MRI
Long-term effects vary, depending on the degree of retardation. They may include: a need for lifelong sheltered living and work environmentsa need for help with basic activities of daily living, such as dressing and toiletingsignificant, lifelong health problemspoor decision-making abilitya need for help with financial decisions and managementemotional and social immaturity
Mental retardation is not contagious. It poses no risk to others.
Treatments for mental retardation may include: early identification of the conditionenrollment in special education programsmedication as needed, such as anticonvulsants for seizuresoccupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapyrespite care as needed
Most treatments for mental retardation are free from side effects. Medications may have specific side effects.
Many people with mental retardation live happy, productive lives. They share loving relationships with friends and family and can make significant contributions to society. A mentally retarded person can receive special education services until the age of 21. Vocational services are available in sheltered workshop settings. Families are urged to do long-term planning for the time when the parents are no longer able to care for the person.
A person with mental retardation needs to make regular visits to the healthcare professional. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported.
