General Practitioner (GP)

General Health | Illness (non emergency)

Although not a specialist, finding a good GP who understands or is willing to learn about Prader-Willi Syndrome is highly recommended.

For people with Prader-Willi Syndrome, a GP can be one of the most important people in your life. A positive ongoing relationship with your GP is priceless, so it’s essential to choose the right one.

A good doctor will go above and beyond and do more than just provide a diagnosis. A good GP should co-ordinate complete healthcare, sending you for the right tests and to the right specialists. Their role is to help you stay healthier and limit unnecessary hospital visits.

Due to the complex nature of Prader-Willi Syndrome and the many factors that can cause difficulties in people with PWS, such as:

• adverse reactions to medications,
• high pain tolerance,
• respiratory issues,
• unstable temperature,
• Adrenal insufficiency,

severe medical complications can develop rapidly in individuals. Often the severity of a clinical symptom may be underestimated until the condition warrants immediate attention; therefore, caution should be taken in interpreting a seemingly minor complaint in someone with Prader-Willi Syndrome.

A good GP will be willing to learn and understand the condition and will be open to discussing your concerns.