Mental Retardation

Mental Retardation is a developmental disorder, where a person has a lower than average ability to think, learn, and solve problems. It happens when the brain doesn't develop normally or is injured.

Often kids with mental retardation have other disabilities that are related to how well the brain works, like seizure disorders or Down syndrome.

There are many possible causes. Some are genetic and happen before the baby is born. A serious head injury or infection can cause mental retardation at any age.

Doctors don't have a cure for some of the causes, but there are tests and treatments for certain diseases that are known to cause mental retardation.