1. Prolonging Life for Patients with Ataxia-Telangiectasia
Presently, there is no cure for children with Ataxia-Telangiectasia. The disease, which usually presents itself around the age of two, becomes increasingly worse over time and generally results in death by the time the child reaches his late teens or early twenties. Although rare, a few individuals have survived into their forties. The key to treating Ataxia-Telangiectasia is to manage its symptoms and treat complications effectively as they arise. Through research, there is hope that a cure will be available in the future.
2. Be Aware of the Cancer Risk
Studies have estimated that a patient with Ataxia-Telangiectasia has a 25 percent chance of developing cancer, 1,000 times the normal rate for children of the same age. The predisposition for cancer generally results in leukemia or lymphoma. Both of these cancers are treatable when found early, though they can complicate treatment and are a frequent cause of death in A-T patients.
3. Administering Medications to Prevent Illness and Minimize Symptoms
The compromised immune systems of A-T patients put them at high risk for developing bacterial and viral infections, some of which can be extremely dangerous. Each year, A-T patients should receive proper immunizations against the flu and pneumonia, two illnesses that can cause serious complications. Because many patients with Ataxia-Telangiectasia lose their ability to cough, they are unable to expel liquid and mucus from their lungs when they become ill. Medications may also be given to patients to minimize symptoms of ataxia, which may cause uncontrolled movements of the arms and legs. Although these drugs won't cure the underlying disease, they can increase the quality of life for the patient by managing the symptoms.
4. The Advantages of Physical and Occupational Therapy
Both physical and occupational therapy can be useful to A-T patients in helping them function to the best of their abilities. While lost functions can't be regained, patients may be able to "re-learn" how to do everyday tasks by maximizing the motor functions they do have. Speech and language therapy may also be helpful for those patients who have trouble communicating because of slurred speech.
