Intellectual Disabilities

The sooner you get expert help for a child with intellectual disabilities, the better they’ll manage life’s challenges. Katherine Peppers, DNP, CPNP-PC, CPMHS, and her highly experienced colleagues at Behavioral & Developmental Pediatrics in Raleigh, North Carolina, offer comprehensive evaluations and treatment to support children and their families. Call the office to schedule a consultation or arrange an intellectual disability evaluation by completing the online form.

What are intellectual disabilities?

Intellectual disabilities affect children’s capacity to learn and remember new information. They can also impact everyday behavior, social skills, and routine activities like washing, dressing, and eating.

Intelligence quotient (IQ) tests determine someone’s intellectual capability. A child scoring below 70 has an intellectual disability, with the condition’s severity ranging from mild to profound.

Mild intellectual disabilities

Children with mild or moderate intellectual disabilities have problems learning practical life skills, find understanding how things work challenging, and fail to develop appropriate social skills.

Severe intellectual disabilities

Children affected by severe intellectual disabilities typically exhibit developmental delays and have limited communication skills. They require more support than children with milder disorders.

Profound intellectual disabilities

Children with profound intellectual disabilities typically require round-the-clock care because they struggle to communicate and can perform limited or no physical activities.

What causes intellectual disabilities?

Common conditions classified as intellectual disabilities include:

Down syndrome

Down syndrome develops because of an extra chromosome that alters a child’s brain and body development. Children with Down syndrome typically have distinct features, such as flattened faces and almond-shaped eyes. IQs vary but are usually lower than average.

Autism

Autism causes social, communication, and behavioral challenges. Symptoms vary widely across the autistic spectrum, with some children having high-functioning autism (Asperger’s syndrome) while others can’t talk or care for themselves.

Fragile X syndrome

Fragile X syndrome is caused by an X chromosome mutation. It’s the most common inherited intellectual disability. Fragile X syndrome symptoms include behavioral changes, speech problems, and sensory issues.

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS)

PWS is a more unusual genetic condition whose chief feature is hyperphagia (chronic eating). Symptoms include excess body weight, weak muscle tone, intellectual delays, and behavioral problems.

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs)

FASDs are conditions caused by alcohol misuse during pregnancy. Common symptoms include cognitive difficulties, sight or hearing problems, and abnormal facial features.

What help is available for children with intellectual disabilities?

Children with intellectual disabilities require varying support depending on the severity and nature of their challenges. Behavioral & Developmental Pediatrics offers specialized support to young people that helps them grow and achieve their potential and their families.

You can also benefit from learning about guardianship — legally authorized control of your child’s interests when they become an adult. Guardianship can include making legal, financial, and medical decisions if your child can’t do these things for themselves.

Call Behavioral & Developmental Pediatrics to arrange an intellectual disability evaluation for your child, or book an appointment online today.