Symptoms of Willams syndrome

Williams syndrome can cause symptoms in different parts of the body, such as the face, heart, and other symptoms. It can also affect a child's ability to learn.

Facial features

Children with Williams syndrome have unique facial features that may include:

• Wide forehead
• Bridge of the nose is flattened
• Short nose with a large tip
• Wide mouth with full lips
• Small chin
• Small, widely spaced teeth
• Missing or crooked teeth
• Uneven eyes
• Folds over the corners of the eyes
• White starburst pattern around the iris, or colored part of the eye
• Long face and neck (in adulthood)

Heart and Blood Vessels

Many with Williams syndrome have problems with their heart and blood vessels.

• The aorta, the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body, may be narrowed.
• The pulmonary arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs also may be narrowed.
• High blood pressure is common.

Narrowed arteries don't let as much oxygen-rich blood reach the heart and body. High blood pressure and decreased blood flow can damage the heart.

Growth problems

Babies born with Williams syndrome can be very small. They may have trouble eating, and might not gain weight or grow as quickly as older children.

As adults, they are often shorter than most people.

Personality

Children with Williams syndrome may be anxious, but they also tend to be very friendly and outgoing.

Learning Problems

Learning problems are common in children with Williams syndrome. They range from mild to severe. Children are slower to walk, talk, and gain new skills compared to other children their age. They may have a learning disorder such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

On the other hand, lots of children with Williams syndrome have very good memories and learn new things quickly. They tend to speak and read well and often have musical talent.

Other Possible Symptoms

• Curved spine, called scoliosis
• Ear infections
• Early puberty
• Farsightedness
• Hernia
• High levels of calcium in the blood
• Hoarse voice
• Joint and bone problems
• Kidney problems
• Urinary tract infections