Prader-Willi syndrome is a rare genetic condition that starts in infancy and causes physical, mental, and behavioral issues. Key symptoms present from birth include low muscle tone - babies often feel floppy when held - distinct facial features, and poor sucking reflex. As the child ages, they develop insatiable food cravings because they never feel full, as well as intellectual challenges and behavioral issues. Treatment is available and requires a high level of care from a team of specialists.
Everyday Health’s team of board-certified physicians and health professionals contribute to the creation and review of content, ensuring that the information is useful, up to date, and accurate.
Joy Tanaka, PhD
Medical Reviewer
Joy Tanaka, PhD, specializes in clinical molecular genetics. She is dedicated to integrating excellent clinical care with cutting-edge medical research for patients with rare and u...
Bhargavi Patham, MD, is board-certified in internal medicine as well as endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism. She is currently practicing academic medicine at Houston Methodist ...
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
Prader-Willi Syndrome. Mayo Clinic. November 14, 2024.