DiGeorge syndrome Easy Read

DiGeorge syndrome

A young baby wrapped in a blanket and wearing a hat and being held.

What is DiGeorge syndrome?

DiGeorge syndrome is a condition some people are born with, there is no cure.

5 people with different disabilities

DiGeorge syndrome affects everyone differently.

A diagram of where the heart is in the body

It can cause learning delays or disability, and heart problems.

An arrow pointing to someones mouth, an arrow pointing to someones ear and anther photograph of a man eating food

It can cause problems with eating, talking and hearing.

A man on the floor shaking

It may cause shaking and fits.

A man shrugging his shoulders

It makes some people very ill, but others may not know they have it.

A smiling man with one hand raised and the other pointing to his chest

Adults with DiGeorge syndrome often live very independent lives.

A photo of a baby with a calendar showing their date of birth, next to an arrow which points to an old woman with a much later date on a calendar behind her

If you were born with DiGeorge syndrome, you have it for your whole life.

The outline of a person.  There are pink circles with black wavy lines in them around the person.

What causes DiGeorge syndrome?

Every person’s body has something called DNA.

A drawing of a piece of DNA with a red cross next to it

DiGeorge syndrome is caused by a small piece missing from your DNA.

A woman in a dress who has a big tummy because she is pregnant

This can happen for no reason when a baby is growing.

A woman with a headset and a speech bubble which has an image of a signpost inside

Where to get help with DiGeorge syndrome

There is no cure for DiGeorge syndrome, but you can get help.

A girl pointing to herself and a lady holding a cup with her thumb up.

You may find speech therapy helpful.

A doctor treating a patient who is sitting on a hospital bed

You may find physiotherapy helpful.

Physiotherapy can be exercises, massage, or other treatments to make you feel better.

A doctor taking the pulse of a man lying on a hospital operating table

Surgery may be needed for bigger problems, like heart problems.

A doctor with a speech bubble

If you or your child has DiGeorge syndrome you should talk to a doctor about getting support.

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Max Appeal! give support and advice for people with DiGeorge syndrome, their carers and families.

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You can contact the Learning Disability helpline for more information and support: