Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day
Wikipedia defines Moebius syndrome as a rare congenital neurological disorder that is characterized by facial paralysis and the inability to move the eyes from side to side
This condition results from the underdevelopment of the facial nerves that control some of the eye movements and facial expressions.
The condition can also affect the nerves responsible for speech, chewing and swallowing.
People with Moebius syndrome are born with complete facial paralysis and cannot close their eyes or form facial expressions.
Limb and chest wall abnormalities sometimes occur.
Despite the lack of facial expressions, which makes people with Moebius syndrome dull and unfriendly and hence incorrectly taken, they have normal intelligence.
The syndrome was named after Paul Julius Mobius, a German neurologist who first described the syndrome in 1888.
"Moebius Syndrome Foundation" was founded in 1994 and later in the year, the first conference was held in Los Angeles.
Symptoms may include:
Feeding, swallowing, and choking problems
Excessive drooling
Crossed eyes
Lack of facial expression
Inability to smile
Sensitive eyes
Motor (movement) delays
High or cleft palate
Hearing problems and speech difficulties
Inability to move the eyes back and forth
Deformities of the tongue, jaw, and limbs, such as clubfoot and missing or webbed fingers, may also occur.
The exact cause of Moebius syndrome is not known. Researchers suspect that, like many other rare conditions, it is most likely caused by many different factors.
According to Moebius Foundation, there is no cure for Moebius syndrome but people with the disorder may have an average life expectancy if they get proper care and treatment.
Surgery may correct crossed eyes; it may also improve limb and jaw deformities. Physical therapy and speech therapy often improve motor (movement) skills and coordination; these therapies can also lead to better control of speaking and eating.
Plastic surgery may be helpful for some people with Moebius. Nerves and muscles can be transferred to the corners of the mouth, making it slightly easier for the person to smile.
Tags: Moebius Syndrome Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day Paul Julius Mobius
