A person who suffers from dyspraxia may find that the disease affects numerous areas of their life. Dyspraxia symptoms can affect a person emotionally, physically, intellectually, and socially, and even impair a person's normal learning process. Doctors do not know what causes the condition, but there are theories. Some researchers believe that an immaturity of neuron development in the brain could be the cause of dyspraxia symptoms.
Dyspraxia is hereditary, and the disease often starts in childhood. An individual could be unaware he or she has the disease, however, because many children with the disease do not have any symptoms. Dyspraxia is common in both adults and children and the disease primarily affects males. Eighty percent of the individuals diagnosed with this condition are male. Worldwide, the condition affects up to 10% of the population.
A person who suffers from dyspraxia may experience various symptoms. Children with the condition may be late in reaching certain milestones. For example, they may have difficulty with math, language development, writing, or even have physical difficulties as a toddler.
Young children with dyspraxia symptoms may take longer to roll over, crawl, stand, walk, speak, and toilet train. As they grow older, motor skills may take longer to develop and impair the child’s ability to play catch, hop, jump, or kick a ball. Dyspraxia symptoms interfere with a person's social and sensory development.
An individual who suffers from dyspraxia may also be sensitive to light, touch, noise, and taste. People with the condition are also more likely to feel stressed, anxious, or depressed. This can make it extremely difficult for the person to maintain healthy relationships and adapt to new situations.
Another common symptom of dyspraxia is difficulty in organizing thoughts. People with the condition may have a poor sense of direction or time. Many suffer from poor short-term memory and are easily distracted. It can be very difficult for an adult with dyspraxia to complete tasks and chores. The symptoms of the disease are remarkably similar to ADHD and could easily be confused.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for dyspraxia. There are several ways that a person can cope with the disorder and get around the difficulties associated with dyspraxia. In childhood, occupational therapists, language therapists, and specialist teachers can all help a person with dyspraxia reach his or her full potential. Once a person becomes an adult, exercises and support groups can help him or her learn how to perform activities and daily activities that are difficult due to the condition.