4. Regression
Rett’s syndrome symptoms are often categorized into ‘stages’. The second stage is often referred to as ‘regression’ or the ‘rapid destructive stage’. In what is extremely alarming for parents to observe, the baby will at this point begin to lose the abilities they spent the previous months and years developing. This can occur at any time between the ages of one and four years and may last 2 months to 2 years.
During this time, the language will get progressively worse, as might memory, use of the hands, mobility, coordination, and more. Again, the regressive symptoms on display are often very similar to those seen in autism spectrum disorder.
This is certainly one of the more distinctive symptoms of Rett’s syndrome, and especially if it occurs alongside others on this list. It is very uncommon to otherwise see a child’s development reverse.