Stage 1 of Rett syndrome, also known as the early onset stage, typically begins between 6 and 18 months of age. This stage is characterized by a period of seemingly normal development followed by a gradual decline in skills.
While the early signs can be subtle, parents and caregivers might notice:
- Slowed head growth: The child's head may not grow at the expected rate.
- Loss of purposeful hand movements: The child may start to lose the ability to use their hands for coordinated actions like reaching or grasping.
- Decreased social interaction: The child may show less interest in interacting with others.
- Delayed language development: The child may have difficulty with language development, including speaking, understanding, and using words.
- Irritability and increased crying: The child may become more irritable and cry more frequently.
It's important to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may not be present in all individuals with Rett syndrome.
As the child progresses through Stage 1, these symptoms become more pronounced, leading to the development of more significant motor and cognitive difficulties.
