Healthopedia.com - Your Health
Encyclopedia

Set Homepage Email Page Favorites      

 
  Home
  Health Centers
  Medical Encyclopedia
  Drugs & Medications
  Diseases & Conditions 
  Medical Symptoms
  Medical Tests & Exams
  Surgery & Procedures 
  Injuries & Wounds
  Diet & Nutrition
  Special Topics
  Pictures & Images      


Google
 
Web Healthopedia.com

You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Mental Retardation: Treatment & Monitoring
      Category : Health Centers > Mental Health (Mental Disorders)

Mental Retardation

Alternate Names : Developmentally Delayed, Mentally Disabled

Mental Retardation | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatments for mental retardation may include:

  • early identification of the condition
  • enrollment in special education programs
  • medication as needed, such as anticonvulsants for seizures
  • occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physical therapy
  • respite care as needed
  • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Most treatments for mental retardation are free from side effects. Medications may have specific side effects.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    Many people with mental retardation live happy, productive lives. They share loving relationships with friends and family and can make significant contributions to society. A mentally retarded person can receive special education services until the age of 21. Vocational services are available in sheltered workshop settings. Families are urged to do long-term planning for the time when the parents are no longer able to care for the person.

    How is the condition monitored?

    A person with mental retardation will have regular visits with the healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the provider.


    Previous section

     

    Next section

    Mental Retardation: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Mental Retardation: Attribution

    Author: Ann Reyes, Ph.D.
    Reviewer: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Date Reviewed: 07/02/01









    Content provided by The Patient Marketing Group, Inc.

    Copyright © 2009 Healthopedia.com All Rights reserved.
    About Us | Help/FAQ | Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy | Advertising Policy | Accessibility | Terms of Use
    Contact Us | Link to Us

    HONcode accreditation seal.

    We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.


    The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call your local emergency number for all medical emergencies. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
    Page Last Updated: 6th April, 2009