Complications

Complications of Rett syndrome include:

• Sleep problems that cause significant sleep disruption to the person with Rett syndrome and family members
• Difficulty eating, leading to poor nutrition and delayed growth
• Bowel and bladder problems, such as constipation, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), bowel or urinary incontinence, and gallbladder disease
• Pain that may accompany problems such as gastrointestinal issues or bone fractures
• Muscle, bone and joint problems
• Anxiety and problem behavior that may hinder social functioning
• Needing lifelong care and assistance with activities of daily living
• Shortened life span — although most people with Rett syndrome live into adulthood, they may not live as long as the average person because of heart problems and other health complications