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A mother and young boy sitting in a doctor’s waiting room, with posters on the wall of various messages. [104]
A man sitting in a doctor’s waiting room, with multiple posters on the wall of various messages. [96]
A mother and young boy sitting in a doctor’s waiting room, with posters on the wall of various messages. [104]
A man sitting in a doctor’s waiting room, with multiple posters on the wall of various messages. [96]

Difficulty walking or talking, frequent vomiting, or problems with memory, thinking, or learning could be signs of a neurological condition.

Don’t wait—when something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Ask your doctor about seeing a neurologist who can run the right tests to help find answers.

Spot the signs of Alexander disease

Alexander disease is a rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and spinal cord (called a neurological condition).

In infants and young children, it can cause:

delays
Developmental delays

(such as missing milestones like sitting, walking, or talking)
Seizures
Seizures
eating troube
Trouble eating or swallowing
enlarged head
Enlarged head

In older children and adults, it can cause:

Problems with balance
Problems with motor skills

(such as balance and walking)
Speech difficulties
Speech difficulties
Breathing issues
Breathing issues
Changes in memory or thinking
Changes in memory or thinking
Two clipboards with symptoms listed for infants and young children on the left, and older children and adults on the right.
Two clipboards with symptoms listed for infants and young children on the left, and older children and adults on the right.

Whether it’s you or someone you care for, subtle health changes may be the first sign that something could be wrong.

Speak up

If you recognize any of the above signs or symptoms in your child, yourself, or someone you care for, it is important to seek prompt medical attention.

Poster with the phrase "Trust your instincts.”
Poster with the phrase "Trust your instincts.”

You understand what feels typical for you or your child and when something seems off—whether it’s eating difficulties, challenges with daily activities, or differences in thinking or behavior—it’s worth discussing with your doctor. The sooner you share your concerns, the better. Your questions and observations matter, and talking about them is an important step toward making informed decisions.

Your healthcare team relies on your input to provide the best care possible. You deserve answers and speaking up to your doctor can help you get them.

Starting the conversation with your or your child’s doctor is the first step

Images depicted are not actual patients.

If your or your child’s symptoms remain unexplained, it is important to empower yourself to advocate for a referral to a neurologist for a:

 

  • Clinical evaluation
  • Brain MRI
  • Genetic test
Clinical evaluation
Brain MRI
Genetic test
Learn more about Alexander disease

MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.