Therapy

Some children may require extra support with development and learning through life. Different types of therapy may be used to address personal needs, which can improve quality of life.

  • Speech therapy can help improve communication skills, including the ability to use voice, language comprehension, fluency, clarity, and expression.
  • Behavioral therapy can help focus on managing emotional issues by teaching children with galactosemia to cope with anxiety and frustration, especially concerning a restricted diet.
  • Physical therapy can help increase muscle strength through exercise programs and adaptive equipment, enabling children to become more mobile and work within limitations.
  • Targeted education plans may be employed to target specific learning difficulties.

Treatment Guidelines

  • Clinical Resources

    The International Galactosemia Network has published clinical guidelines for the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of classic galactosemia.

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  • Diagnosis

    Galactosemia is often challenging to diagnose because physical symptoms may not be present immediately after birth. Newborn screening and genetic tests are thus crucial because the earlier galactosemia is identified, the less likely a child will have irreversible complications.

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  • Dietary Guidelines

    Recommended diets for classic galactosemia are somewhat controversial and outdated due to a lack of substantial research and because clinics do not provide uniform direction to all patients. However, there are some diet resources that families can follow.

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