Dyscalculia (patient information)
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Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [1] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, M.B.B.S.
Synonyms and Keywords: Mathematics disorder
Overview
Mathematics disorder is a condition in which a child's math ability is far below normal for their age, intelligence, and education.
What are the symptoms of Dyscalculia?
- Early difficulties with arithmetic are noticed, as well as low scores in math classes and tests
- Some of the problems seen include:
- Trouble with reading, writing, and copying numbers
- Problems counting and adding numbers, often making simple mistakes
- Difficulty telling the difference between addition and subtraction
- Problems understanding math symbols and word problems
- Unable to line up numbers properly to add, subtract, or multiply
- Unable to arrange numbers from smallest to largest, or the opposite
- Unable to understand graphs
What causes Dyscalculia?
- Children who have mathematics disorder may have trouble performing simple mathematical equations, such as counting and adding.
- Mathematical disorder may appear with:
When to seek urgent medical care?
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have any concerns about your child's development.
Diagnosis
- Standardized tests can assess the child's math ability.
- Grades and class performance can also help.
Treatment options
- The best treatment is remedial education.
- Other programs that have been successful include Project Math and teaching computer skills.
Where to find medical care for Dyscalculia?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Dyscalculia
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Early intervention improves the chances of a better outcome.
Possible complications
- The child may have problems in school, including behavior problems and loss of self-esteem.
- Some children with mathematics disorder become anxious or afraid when given math problems, making the problem even worse.
Prevention
- Affected families should make every effort to recognize existing problems early.
- Intervention may begin as early as kindergarten or elementary school.