The Physical Aspects of Down Syndrome

A baby born with Down syndrome is diagnosed based on physical examination. Typical characteristics are low muscle tone and loose joints, a flat facial profile and an upward slant to the eyes. The ears are usually small and there is a single crease across the palms instead of the double crease normally seen. Down babies is usually of normal birth size but tend to grow at slower rates than other babies. Their low muscle tone usually leads to sucking problems, constipation and other digestive problems.

Developmental milestones are usually delayed such as speech, self-care, feeding and toilet training.

Cognitive ability ranges from mild to moderate retardation. Down syndrome children can usually achieve physical skills but at a slower pace than other children.

There is no way to determine at birth what a child's potential is and all children with Down Syndrome must be encouraged to reach their own full potential by encouraging a nurturing environment, an enriching education and proper medical care.

It is possible for a child to be born with Down Syndrome and to be relatively healthy. Others with Down Syndrome have multiple medical issues to deal with. Half of all babies born with Down Syndrome (DS) have congenital heart defects, pulmonary hypertension, vision problems, auditory issues, language and learning challenges.

Other medical issues center around the thyroid, intestinal disturbances, seizure disorders, respiratory problems, obesity, having a higher than normal susceptibility to infection as well as having a higher than normal occurrence of Leukemia. Many of these physical conditions are treatable.

The health concerns can be many or few. Each child faces different physical challenges from mild to severe. Each child may have different symptoms as well as different combinations of medical issues. The most commonly seen physical medical concerns are:

Congenital heart disease is seen in approximately 45% of children with Down Syndrome

Hearing deficits occur in up to 80% of those born with Down Syndrome

Intestinal abnormalities are common including esophageal blockage, problems with the small bowel and the anus

3% of newborns with Downs are born with cataracts that require surgery to remove them

Other vision problems can be strabismus, near-sightedness, and also far-sightedness

As many as 2% of those born with Down Syndrome have some kind of neck problem requiring surgery. Other skeletal problems that can also occur are involving the kneecap, and also possible hip dislocation

Other medical conditions may involve immunological issues, seizure disorders, and sleep apnea and also skin disorders.

There are prenatal tests that can be performed; however the certainty of the diagnosis of Down can only be made at birth. The extent of the physical, mental and emotional aspects of Downs can only be determined over time.