Pediatric Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive impairment refers to a condition in which a child’s intellectual functions and adaptive skills are significantly below average for their age. This is the most common type of developmental disorder affecting kids, and it can manifest itself in behavior problems, an inability to concentrate and problems with communicating or understanding the sequences of actions. Causes of cognitive impairment range from birth injuries or an illness encountered during the mother’s pregnancy to genetic or chromosomal disorders, extreme malnutrition and exposure to certain toxins. Consistent developmental screening provided during regular visits to your primary care physician can reveal the presence of cognitive impairment and ensure that prompt treatment is provided in the form of cognitive and educational therapy along with medication and specialist care when appropriate.