10 Symptoms of Rett Syndrome

7. Difficulty Breathing

Difficulty breathing is very common in children with Rett Syndrome. They may experience an uncoordinated breathing pattern, known as ataxic breathing, where there are irregular pauses between breaths and periods of apnea. They may also experience hyperventilation, which occurs when a person breathes very, very quickly, disrupting the balance of oxygen and carbon monoxide and sometimes causing fainting. Also common is forceful exhaling of air and sometimes saliva, as well as gulping large amounts of air. Extra oxygen through a face mask can help, and certain techniques can calm the affected child and help restore a consistent breathing pattern.