Pierre Robin Syndrome (PRS) involves a deformity that affects the jaw and tongue. This rare congenital disorder can cause problems with breathing and feeding, and these health effects can be serious depending on the severity of the condition. Proper treatment is key to preventing worsening issues and supporting the healthy development of babies with PRS.
It is not entirely clear what causes certain babies to have PRS, but doctors highlight a specific sequence of events that leads to the condition:
This sequence leads to the health effects associated with PRS. Infants can experience airway obstruction or have problems swallowing. Babies may also snore heavily, or experience loss of hearing caused by fluid accumulation within the ears, which is a consequence of palate defects.
Treatment of PRS can vary quite a bit depending on the severity of the condition. However, medication is not commonly included within treatment regimens when it comes to this condition. In severe cases, surgery is recommended to correct deformity. When the effects are less severe, it may be possible to counteract symptoms by adjusting a baby’s sleeping position. Doctors may also recommend breathing tubes to ensure the proper flow of oxygen to the lungs.
In some cases, the effects of PRS improve as a baby grows older. This is due to further development of the jaw, which can correct some of the issues associated with PRS.