Sunday, February 1, 2009

My little G.G.

Camielle is my "Grammy Girl" that is why I call her G.G. Camielle was born with Moebius Syndrome. For thos who do not know what that is.

Moebius syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that is present at birth. It primarily affects the 6th and 7th cranial nerves, leaving those with the condition unable to move their faces (they can’t smile, frown, suck, grimace or blink their eyes) and unable to move their eyes laterally. Other cranial nerves may be affected, especially the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 9th, 10th and 12th. There may be skeletal involvement causing hand/feet anomalies and/or club feet. Respiratory problems, speech and swallowing disorders, visual impairments, sensory integration dysfunction, sleep disorders, and weak upper body strength may also be present. Approximately 30% of children with Moebius syndrome are on the autism spectrum.


*Lack of facial expression; inability to smile
*Feeding, swallowing and choking problems
*Keeping head back to swallow
*Eye sensitivity due to inability to squint
*Motor delays due to upper body weakness
*Absence of lateral eye movement
*Absence of blinking
Strabismus (crossed eyes)
*Drooling
*High palate
*Short or deformed tongue
*Limited movement of tongue
Submucous cleft palate
*Dental problems
Hearing impairment
*Articulation / speech disorders
*Minor mid-line anomalies
Club feet
*Hand/feet deformities
* marks Camielles anomalies

Although they may crawl and walk later, most children with Moebius Syndrome eventually catch up. Speech problems often respond to therapy, but may persist due to impaired mobility of the tongue and/or mouth. As children get older, the lack of facial expression and an inability to smile may become the dominant visible symptoms.

You Can read more on Moebius Syndrome @ www.moebiussyndrome.com

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