Sunday, February 28, 2016

Treatment

It is heartbreaking to say that there is no cure for this terrible disease.

Children affected by this disease have such a rough road ahead of them... and research is continuously being conducted on whether a cure can be found.

For now, the best treatment is to contain the symptoms and promote comfort.... as best as a person can.

These include:

  • Anti-convulsant medication to control seizures
  • Proper nutrition and hydration (via nasogastric or esophagogastrostomy tube)
  • Providing respiratory care
                 * Children are at a higher risk for developing lung infections, which can lead to breathing                       problems. Therefore, respiratory therapists should get involved in their care. 
                 * Chest physiotherapy helps to reduce the amount of mucus in the patient's lungs. 
  • Physical therapy
                 * This helps with joint flexibility and maintaining range of motion as much as possible. 
                 * Delays joint stiffness and reduces pain from the shortening of muscles. 
  • Family support
                 * Therapy, resources, and support groups are offered to families suffering from this disease

Reference: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tay-sachs-disease/care-at-mayo-clinic/treatment/con-20036799
https://www.google.com/search?q=coping+with+tay+sachs&espv=2&biw=1366&bih=667&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwi7kPm2opvLAhUW1WMKHUeFANQQ_AUIBigB#imgrc=_FE4oxx2uaRgIM%3A

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